According to ESPN Boston’s Mike Reiss, there’s a decent enough chance that the Patriots will use their franchise tag on WR Wes Welker for the second straight season because “he’s too valuable to let walk.“ Welker was seeking a long-term deal last year, but the Patriots prevented that from happening by simply applying their tag to him. Another tag would come with a 20 percent increase, but it’s pretty clear that the Welker is still a very effective player in New Englands offense. The Pats seemed to be hoping that Julian Edelman would be able to take his place, but injuries to their tight ends and Edelman himself changed their offensive attack. Edelman will also be a free agent, so there’s serious decisions to be made regarding the two players. Source: NFL Trade Rumors
I really thought Edelman was being groomed for that spot but he's been brittle. Plus Welker is still putting up crazy numbers. At this point though it would be good business to just tag him next year.
well, $12 mill for welker seems a little ludicrous but the Pats are actually in very good cap shape so they could do it if they wanted.
Right, they have the room to splurge on this luxury that makes their franchise QB lots of plays. Plus, Welker's earned the fat paycheck for his work. So kudos to Welker either way.
