 Stephen Gostkowski and the Patriots have until July 15 to reach a long-term agreement after the kicker signed his franchise tender Friday afternoon. (USA TODAY Images) |
New England Patriots kicker Stephen Gostkowski signed his franchise tender Friday afternoon.
The 31-year-old is now signed for $4.59 million in 2015. The team released a statement shortly following Gostkowski's decision to sign. --
"Stephen has been extremely productive and a vital component to our success since joining our team in 2006. Utilizing the franchise designation allows both sides more time to try to reach an agreement, which is the goal."
As the Patriots mentioned in their statement, signing the tender keeps Gostkowski for the upcoming season while allowing both sides to work on a long-term extension.
The deadline for players who received the tag to sign an extension is July 15, a little over four months from now. It seems unlikely the two sides will not be able to reach an agreement before then.
Gostkowski has been extremely reliable and productive throughout his career.
He made 35-of-37 field goals (94.6 %) in 2014 and has played in every game since being drafted in the fourth-round of the 2006 NFL draft.
Do you have a Twitter account? Be sure to follow me: @PatriotsHaven!
Listen to our "Patriots 4th and 2 Podcast" on Blog Talk Radio as writers Russ Goldman, Steve Balestrieri and I from PatsFans.com discuss the latest Patriots news on Wednesday.
More News Headlines:
Vrabel Reveals Drake Maye’s Status For Patriots’ Preseason Game
By: Ian LogueThe Patriots' Mike Vrabel confirms Drake Maye will sit out Thursday's preseason opener against the Colts. Other QBs like Tommy DeVito will see action.
TRANSCRIPT: Drake Maye Press Conference 8/11
By: Ian LogueHere's the full transcript of what New England Patriots quarterback Drake Maye had to say following Tuesday's joint Patriots / Colts joint practice.
TRANSCRIPT: Mike Vrabel Press Conference 8/11
By: Ian LogueHere's the full transcript of what New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel had to say ahead of the team's first joint practice of 2026…
Notes From Patriots Training Camp: Day 13
By: Ian LogueAnalyzing Day 13 of Patriots Training Camp, Drake Maye and Tommy DeVito impress, while Carlton Davis and Will Campbell return to practice.
Patriots Part Ways With Another 2024 Draft Pick
By: Ian LogueThe Patriots released 2024 third-round offensive lineman Caedan Wallace, ending his tenure after injuries derailed his progress.