One of the most important aspects of the Colts' decision to extend Pro Bowl safety Bob Sanders' contract before the end of the 2007 season was that it gave the Colts flexibility to retain Pro Bowl tight end Dallas Clark.
Well, the Colts took advantage of that flexibility by designating Clark their franchise player, thereby retaining his rights through at least the 2008 season. Polian would have likely used the franchise designation on Sanders had he not signed the safety to a long-term deal.
The hope in Indy is that Clark will agree to a long-term extension and remain one of Peyton Manning's favorite targets for years to come. Absent a multi-year deal, the franchise designation is the next best thing.
Clark doesn't want to go anywhere, but he does want to earn top dollar as one of the premier players at his position. Team president Bill Polian hasn't hestitated to shell out big bucks to keep his premier players, signing Manning, Reggie Wayne, Sanders, and Dwight Freeney to long-term extensions the last three years.
Clark is on that wish list, and chances are Polian will find a way to keep him long term. But at least he bought himself some time with the franchise tag.