Vinatieri defends Patriots' Gostkowski after extra-point miss

Indianapolis Colts kicker Adam Vinatieri has spoken out in defense of the man who the New England Patriots brought in to replace him: Stephen Gostkowski.

Gostkowski missed an extra point in the Patriots' AFC Championship Game loss to the Denver Broncos, with the mistake costing his team dearly later in the game. The Patriots scored a touchdown with 12 seconds remaining, but were forced to try a two-point conversion in order to send the game to overtime because of his miss - and were unsuccessful.

However, Vinatieri believes that Gostkowski's miss should be forgiven after 10 outstanding seasons for the team.

"Stephen is awesome. I've got the utmost respect for him. I think he is a great kicker," said Vinatieri, who kicked game-winning field goals in Super Bowls XXXVI and XXXVIII for the Patriots.

"He didn't miss one all (regular) season long. He missed one extra point the whole season. I wouldn't hold it too much against him on that. That's for dang sure. I think he is as good of a guy as you're ever going to get to kick for your team. You would be fortunate and lucky to have him."

Vinatieri admitted he was stunned by the miss, but only because he believes Gostkowski is one of the premier players at their position.

"Whenever you miss a kick it's a lousy feeling, obviously, but he is so good. I mean, it shocked me," said Vinatieri. "I was like, 'No way,' just because he is so good."

Gostkowski surpassed Vinatieri this season, becoming the Patriots' all-time record holder for successful field goals.