[
]()
INDIANAPOLIS – Punter Pat McAfee has been a valuable performer for the Colts since 2009.
This past season, McAfee punted 73 times for a 48.2 average, setting the club seasonal yardage mark that he also established in 2011 (46.6). Additionally, his 40.3 net average established a club seasonal standard, and his performances helped the club move from 2-14 in 2011 to 11-5 and into the playoffs last season.
The club has elected to use its franchise tag on McAfee. McAfee was to be among 14 Colts who would become unrestricted free agents on March 12. Unrestricted free agents can sign with other teams, and the Colts would receive no compensation.
With the franchise tag, the Colts will receive compensation in the form of two number one draft choices should McAfee sign elsewhere. With this designation, McAfee will receive a one-year contract for the average of the five largest salaries for NFL punters.
The Colts are free to negotiate a long-term contract with McAfee, but the club's franchise tag is spent for this season.
"It's an honor to know that I'll be a member of the Indianapolis Colts for at least another year," said Colts punter Pat McAfee. "I love the city, I love the team and I love being a member of the community. I obviously hope to work out a long-term deal to stay here forever, but one more guaranteed year is awesome. Go Colts."
McAfee has 290 career punts for a 45.5 average.
