Kicker Stephen Gostkowski is sometimes called on to beat the clock with a game-winning field goal for the Patriots.
On Wednesday, he beat the deadline to sign a multi-year deal with the team. According to multiple reports, Gostkowski has agreed to a four-year deal with the team and Adam Schefter of ESPN reports that the total value is $17.2 million. The annual average of $4.3 million per year is the most for any kicker in the league.
Gostkowski had already signed his $4.59 million franchise tender so there wasn’t going to be any holdout had the two sides failed to agree to a deal. Getting one done helps the Patriots under the cap and gives Gostkowski the security to know that he’ll continue playing for the only team he’s ever played for in the NFL.
Gostkowski joined the Pats in 2006 and has made 243-of-280 field goals over the last nine seasons. All of those field goals have helped him lead the league in scoring for the last three seasons and his accuracy makes sticking with Gostkowski an easy choice for New England.
