The Carolina Panthersdon't have the greenbacks to keep everyone, but they're putting a ring on the finger of their reliable kicker.
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The team announced Friday that it signed Graham Gano to a four-year deal that will keep him under contract through the 2017 season. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported the deal is worth $12.4 million and could increase to $13 million overall, per a source who has seen the deal.
"The special teams unit was a large part of our success last year, and we are excited to keep Graham as a part of our team," coach Ron Rivera said in a statement. "Graham has shown range and accuracy in his field goal kicking, and his strong leg has been a weapon for us on kickoffs."
In his first full season in Carolina, Gano hit a career-best 88.9 percent of field goals (nailing 24 of 27 attempts) while punching in all 42 of his extra points. He also nailed an NFL-best six field goals from 50 or more yards out.
A Greg Hardy signing will generate more fanfare in Charlotte, but chalk this up as a smart deal for a team planning to use its money wisely this offseason.
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