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The Patriots All Pro free safety Devin McCourty spoke to the media today and all signs are pointing to his return to New England in one form or another.
McCourty noted that negotiations took place all season long and that the Patriots haven't brought up the franchise tag yet. He referred to the tag as "player-friendly" and a "good number." He also referred to getting tagged as a "worst case scenario," but that he "wouldn't be mad" if he were tagged, so he clearly expects his worst possible outcome to be pretty darn good.
"[There's] no reason to stress," McCourty stated. "I love it here."
The Patriots absolutely love the free safety and there's an overall understanding that Darrelle Revis' contract has to sort itself out first. It's very probable that McCourty will receive the franchise tag, with a contract extension already set up and ready to execute upon a Revis restructure.
From McCourty's answers, it seems he just wants to receive his contract so he can move forward as a member of the Patriots. He wants to be paid fairly, but for him he just wants it to be resolved as soon as possible.
Let's hope it happens sooner rather than later.