The New England Patriots and Wes Welker are on opposite sides when it comes to the wide receiver's future with the team. Could the Patriots possibly be letting Tom Brady's favorite target walk away? If they refuse to pay him like one of the best receiver's in the league, then he will. As Welker begins to test free agency and find out his worth with other teams, the receiver is in serious talks to sign with the Denver Broncos.
As the Patriots continue to low-ball the receiver, other teams are prepared to sign him at top dollar. Welker received the franchise tag in 2012, earning a $9.5 million salary. If New England had used the franchise tag on him this year, it would have raised his salary to $11.4 million. Instead the Patriots have stalled in contract negotiations, letting Welker try his chances with other organizations.
At 32-years old, Welker has been one of the best receivers during his time in the NFL. He has been some of the most reliable hands on the Patriots. In 2012, he finished with a team-high 118 catches and 1,354 receiving yards with six touchdowns. He became the first NFL player in history to have five 110-catch seasons. He has an average of 112 receptions in his six seasons with the Patriots. There is no one better in the league at running option routes than Welker.
Currently, the Broncos are working to hammer out a contract with the receiver before another team attempts to sign him. A decision is expected by Wednesday. Welker paired with quarterback Peyton Manning could be a deadly combination.
The serious talks with Denver could push the Patriots to raise their offer to Welker. However, the strained relationship between the two parties could force Welker to sign with the New England rival. It does not hurt that the Denver Broncos are already being considered a Super Bowl contender, which could way on Welker's decision.
