The Seahawks designated kicker Olindo Mare their franchise player, it was announced by the team on Wednesday.

“We are excited to assure Olindo remains with the team,” said general manager John Schneider. “It is important to have continuity in the kicking game.”

Mare ranked third in the NFL, nailing 24 of 26 field goal attempts and is 48 of 53 overall in his two season in Seattle. Mare also had 100 points (6th NFC), ranked fourth in the NFC (5th NFL) with 22 touchbacks and finished the season with a club-record 21 consecutive field goals made.

By placing the franchise tag on Mare, Seattle will tender a minimum of the average salary of the top five kickers in the NFL, or a 20 percent salary increase, whichever is greater. Mare will be free to negotiate with any other team, but the Seahawks can match any offer or receive two first-round draft choices if they decide not to match.

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