The New York Giants announced Monday that the team will use their franchise tag on punter Steve Weatherford.

Weatherford averaged 45.7 yards per punt in 2011, his first year with the Giants. He spent the previous two seasons in New York, but as a member of the Jets, and he knew the only way to win a Championship was to switch teams.  Steve has become a quick fan favorite, and I’m sure Coach Coughlin isthrilled to have him back on the team.

The sixth-year pro announced the move via his Twitter account: “What a blessing to have another opportunity to be a NY Giant for at least another season. God is good!!!”

Weatherford will be paid the average of the top five salaries for punters. If he signs with another team, the Giants will get two first-round picks as compensation.