The Green Bay Packers have announced that they have re-signed cornerback Sam Shields before he could hit the free agent market.

Reports suggested that the 26-year-old was ready to test the open market, after discussions with the Packers came to a halt last week.

However, the club made a concerted effort to re-sign Shields before he could talk to other teams, and have reportedly agreed a four-year deal worth $39m (£23m) with the cornerback.

Shields made 61 tackles and four interceptions for the Packers in the 2013 season.