The New England Patriots have opened up discussions with rookie safety Devin McCourty to secure the player's future with the team.

McCourty has made an impressive transition from cornerback to his current stance as safety, with the Patriots now looking to offer him a second contract before the remaining year on his current rookie deal runs out.

Reports in the NFL media suggest that if a deal is reached, it could come in the form of something close to a six-year, $54m (£31m) contract with $26m (£15.5m) in guarantees.

McCourty has only missed three starts in four seasons.