Wes Welker signing with the Denver Broncos was the deal heard around the world. Welker leaving the Patriots for AFC rivals and Tom Brady's biggest rival in Peyton Manning certainly garnered a lot of reactions. The NFL is a business and the Broncos did what they had to do to compete with the Patriots. After Manning reportedly gave his approval for the team to sign Welker the deal was finalized and now Brady is none too happy with his team's inability to retain their best wide receiver.
It was reported Wednesday that Welker was in serious talks to sign with the Broncos, making his departure from New England all but guaranteed. The two sides had been on opposite ends of contract talks since last season and Welker officially cut ties with a team where he became one of the top receivers in the league.
Manning was an important part in the deal getting done. The 37-year old voiced his support for Welker. Team executive John Elway told the Denver Post that he asked Manning about his opinion on Welker potentially signing with the team and the quarterback was completely on board. Of course Manning would want one of the best slot receivers in the NFL who consistently turns out 110-catch, 1,000 receiving yard seasons. The move not only helps the Broncos get back into Super Bowl contention, but hurts the Patriots.
While New England's answer was to sign receiver Danny Amendola, Brady is not happy about the loss of Welker. Sources are reporting that Brady feels like he was tricked into a signing a new contract and now has more pressure than ever to perform without Welker, his favorite target. Amendola is a quality receiver but he is no Welker. The 27-year old finished last season with 63 receptions for 666 yards and three touchdowns in 11 games with the St. Louis Rams. He missed all of 2011 with a dislocated left elbow and an injured triceps. Amendola is familiar with the Patriots. He has played for Josh McDaniels who is now the Patriots offensive coordinator. Brady however is not satisfied and knows that if the team is unable to perform at a high level, the postseason will not be an option.
Welker's contract is worth $12 million a year, but more importantly it could get the receiver another Super Bowl ring. Manning has the highest pass completion to slot receivers, so the two are a perfect match.