Arbitrator rules in favor of Brees

NEW ORLEANS, July 3 (UPI) -- A 2013 franchise tag for New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees would be his third, not his, second, an arbitrator has ruled.

The NFL confirmed Tuesday arbitrator Stephen Burbank made the franchise tag ruling in favor of Brees and the NFL Players Association, The (New Orleans) Times-Picayune reported.

The ruling means Brees, who is in long-term contract negotiations with the Saints, would be eligible for a 44 percent pay raise if he gets the franchise tag again in the next off-season.

Receiving the designation in 2013 would give Brees a one-year deal worth $23.5 million.

The ruling strengthens Brees' position as negotiations with the team approach a July 16 deadline for a long-term agreement.

If he doesn't sign a contract, Brees will have to play under the franchise tender of $16.37 million or could choose to sit out all or part of next season.

The All-Pro quarterback has twice received the franchise tag -- once with the San Diego Charges in 2005 and once with the Saints in March.