Two Linemen Won't Be Free Agents

Former Michigan linemates Steve Hutchinson and Jeff Backus were protected from free agency by the Seattle Seahawks and Detroit Lions, respectively, yesterday, the final day for NFL teams to designate franchise and transition players.

Hutchinson, an all-pro left guard for NFC champion Seattle, was given the transition player tag by the Seahawks, meaning he is guaranteed $6.39 million next season if he doesn't sign a long-term contract. The tag also gives the team the right to match any offer from another team.

Backus was designated Detroit's franchise player. He is guaranteed $6.98 million, and the Lions will get two first-round draft picks if he signs with another team and can decide whether or not to match.

The NFL's free agent period starts on Thursday, with a minimal number of star players available -- except at running back.

One of those could be NFL MVP Shaun Alexander , who was designated Seattle's franchise player before last season, signing the one-year deal worth $6.32 million with the agreement that he not be tagged again after the 2005 season.

Alexander will become a free agent unless he agrees to a new deal with the team, which is still trying to reach an agreement with him.

-- From News Services