For the second consecutive year, it failed, and Karlos Dansby will player under a franchise figure of $9.7 million.
The club has tried to reach agreement with Dansby's agents for the past two years, yet reportedly came close to re-signing him once.
That reportedly happened earlier this year, but according to sources, Dansby fired agent Kirk Wood just as a deal was getting close.
Dansby, who then hired Todd France, denied that. Dansby isn't bitter or angry. He's continually said he understands the business, and that he has made a business decision, too.
Dansby has long anticipated becoming an unrestricted free agent in 2010, which could be an uncapped season. He thinks a playmaking inside linebacker, who is only 28, will be an attractive commodity.
The Cardinals are unlikely to franchise Dansby again, given a third consecutive franchise number calls for a 44 percent raise, up to nearly $14 million.
The Cardinals won't pay that. Dansby reportedly is seeking a long-term deal that includes more than $20 million guaranteed.
It's doubtful the Cardinals are going to pay that, either.
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