 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.
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