A lot is being made of the New England Patriots free agency run. After what some are considering a "disappointing season" the team is focused on improving several position groups, including their wide receivers. The 2013 corps never truly developed. However, the one bright spot came in Julian Edelman who would prefer to remain with the team for the long-term.
Edelman came at a huge discount for the Patriots. The wide receiver signed a one-year deal worth less than a million dolls. The repaid the team but leading all receivers with 105 catches on the season. He split his time on field between playing out wide and in the slot, becoming Tom Brady's new favorite target. However, with success should come money and Edelman would enjoy a nice pay raise.
While speaking on 98.5 The Sports Hub, Edelman said he would prefer to remain in New England. The two sides have not begun discussing a contract extension, but Edelman is hoping to cash in on recent success knowing the opportunity might not come again.
"Playing for New England is a dream, but like you said, there's a short window in this sport. I don't know yet," Edelman said, via MassLive.com. "There's a lot of things that can happen going forward that could sway that one way or another. Hopefully it all works out in favor for both."
Edelman earned the spotlight that was supposed to be for Danny Amendola who was signed to a large contract following the departure of Wes Welker. He proved to be highly unsuccessful this season and the result was Edelman putting up 1,056 yards and six touchdowns. New England is well-aware that they need to keep the receiver against.
"I haven't even sat down with my agents and discussed that yet," Edelman said. "Going forward, I'm going to sit down and discuss what I want and we'll come up with a plan."
While the Patriots continue to figure out their free agency plan, one person that likely will not be available is Arizona receiver, Larry Fitzgerald. Reports surfaced that the Patriots had sent out feelers regarding his availability. Fitzgerald will be an $18 million salary cap hit, set to make $12.75 in the final year of his contract. That could have the team thinking trade or release. However, Fitzgerald stressed that he is willing to restructure his contract to help the team. That does not include a pay cut.
"Absolutely. If that is what needs to be done, that's what needs to be done," Fitzgerald said, via FOX Sports.
