1.   Both sides were arguing over various issues, including guaranteed contracts and the use of the franchise player tag.

2.   But by removing the franchise tag, the Eagles will receive no compensation if Trotter signs with another team.

3.   But in this situation, the Patriots can head Parcells off at the pass with the franchise tag.

4.   But the players union is appealing the use of the franchise tag by Minnesota, Buffalo and Washington.

5.   Each club, the NFLPA will argue, already had the franchise tag on another player.

6.   Gilbert lost his case to have his franchise tag removed, but the Redskins gave Sunseri clearance to work out contract terms with another team.

7.   If one signs before the free-agency period begins Friday, the Cardinals can slap the franchise tag on the other and protect both.

8.   If neither signs, the Cardinals can put the franchise tag on one, quite possibly alienating that player, and then sweat out the signing of the other.

9.   In many instances, teams slap the franchise tag on a player to keep him from leaving and continue to negotiate a long-term contract.

10.   In the Washington case, the NFLPA argues that the Redskins put the franchise tag on defensive tackle Sean Gilbert for the sole purpose of trading him.