[KC Chiefs.com] The Chiefs named outside linebacker Tamba Hali their franchise player today, effectively keeping him off the free-agent market.

Hali, the Chiefs’ first-round draft pick in 2006, led the AFC last season with 14 1/2 sacks.

Hali is a non-exclusive franchise player, meaning the Chiefs must offer him a one-year contract for an amount equal to the average salary of the five highest-paid outside linebackers in 2010.

Last year, that salary for a franchise outside linebacker was $9.68 million.

Once the players and owners agree to a new collective bargaining agreement, Hali would be free to negotiate a contract with other teams. The Chiefs would have the right to match any offer sheet Hali signs.

If they decline to match, the Chiefs would receive two first-round draft picks from Hali’s new team.