Oakland Raiders use franchise tag on safety Tyvon Branch

The Oakland Raiders have placed their franchise tag on strong safety Tyvon Branch, the team announced Thursday.

"We are pleased that Tyvon will return to the Raiders in 2012," Raiders general manager Reggie McKenzie said in a statement. "Tyvon is a talented, productive player who we hope will be wearing the Silver and Black for many years to come. We will continue to work on a long-term deal to make that happen."

Branch has been a full-time starter for the Raiders the past three seasons, starting 48 consecutive games. Last season. Branch recorded 109 tackles and had a sack and an interception.

The franchise tag for safeties is expected to result in a salary of $6.2 million in 2012, down from $8.8 million last season, according to NFL.com.

By using the franchise tag on Branch, running back Michael Bush is likely to hit the open market when free agency open on March 13.