As free agency continues on, the chances Wes Welker stays with New England Patriots seem less and less likely to happen. Free agency was supposed to help clear up his future with the team and instead, it has just made it more uncertain. While Welker wanted to test free agency in an effort to get a new deal from the Patriots, the two sides are far apart on the issue. It is now being reported that Welker and the team are nowhere close to reaching a deal and Welker is prepared to walk away from the team.
Welker has been the go-to target for quarterback Tom Brady and many fans had hoped he and the team could come to a satisfying long-term contract that would keep Welker a Patriot for his career. However, the deal remains in limbo and discussions have all but halted, leading to little optimism that Welker stays in New England.
Welker has been nothing but productive while in New England, being the team's leading slot receiver. Last season Welker had 118 receptions for 1,354 yards and six touchdowns. He is known for his yards after the catch and ability to shake off defenders. After being franchised last year by the team, Welker is ready to get paid like one of the league's top receivers. His camp is prepared to now focus on free agency and not a new deal with the Patriots.
If Welker does in fact leave, New England must come up with a new plan for the wide receiver position. The team has been rumored to be in the hunt for New York receiver Victor Cruz. Cruz is in search of a new deal that will have him earning big money so it seems unlikely the Patriots could even consider him if they are unwilling to give Welker that kind of money.
Browns' receiver Josh Cribbs could be the perfect fit for the Patriots. The 29-year old can play both receiver and return man making him a great total-package deal. He had 41 catches in 2011 and seven in 2012. He could be a great slot receiver but is nowhere near being able to produce the 110 catches, 1,200 yard seasons that Welker averages. The reality is that the Patriots need Welker if they want to compete next year.