New England Patriots have taken the decision to place the franchise tag on kicker Stephen Gostkowski to keep him at the club for the 2015 season.

The 31-year-old was due to become a free agent when his contract ends with the Patriots next week, along with safety Devin McCourty.

Both players were candidates to receive the tag to ensure their stay for the next campaign, but the club have opted to designate Gostkowski with the tag at a price of $4.56m (£2.9m) to allow them to work on a long-term deal in the near future.

A statement from the club said: "Stephen has been extremely productive and a vital component to our success since joining our team in 2006.

"Utilising the franchise designation allows both sides more time to try to reach an agreement, which is the goal."

Gostkowski successfully kicked 35 out of 37 field goals for the Patriots last season.