An network processor is described that is configured to multicast multiple data packets to one or more engines. In one or more implementations, the network processor includes an input/output adapter configured to parse a plurality of tasks. The input/output adapter includes a multicast module configured to determine a reference count value based upon a maximum multicast value of the plurality of tasks. The input/output adapter is also configured to set a reference count decrement value within the control data portion of the plurality of tasks. The reference count decrement value is based upon the maximum multicast value. The input/output adapter is also configured to decrement the reference count value by a corresponding reference count decrement value upon receiving an indication from an engine.