Fansided

Wes Welker open to New England Patriots reunion

By Josh Criswell

Jan 12, 2014; Denver, CO, USA; Denver Broncos wide receiver Wes Welker (83) against the San Diego Chargers during the 2013 AFC divisional playoff football game at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 12, 2014; Denver, CO, USA; Denver Broncos wide receiver Wes Welker (83) against the San Diego Chargers during the 2013 AFC divisional playoff football game at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /
facebooktwitterreddit

Wes Welker and his former team, the New England Patriots, had a messy falling-out in 2012. Still, the free-agent receiver is reportedly open to reuniting.

Does Wes Welker really want to play for the New England Patriots, or is the market for the 34-year old receiver simply not there in NFL free agency?

It is likely a mix of both, but considering the high-profile breakup between the Patriots organization and their former Pro Bowl wide-out just two years ago, New England would seem like the last possible destination for the aging Pro Bowl receiver. After spending months on the free-agent market, however, Welker is growing increasingly open to the idea of playing anywhere, and his former team could be a nice destination.

Via ESPN:

"“I wouldn’t be opposed to it,”  Welker told 98.5 The Sports Hub in Boston, regarding a potential return to the Patriots. “It’s a great organization, obviously, and a great team. It wouldn’t be the worst situation in the world.”"

It really is not surprising that he is open to a return to New England. He has already been supportive of the Patriots organization in the wake of the ‘Deflategate’ scandal, and although he may have been replaced by Julian Edelman as the team’s go-to slot receiver, Welker has always been a fan favorite. The veteran would surely receive a warm welcome.

The big question will be what can Welker bring to the Patriots at 34 years old that they do not already have in Edelman? Welker was notorious for going across the middle with complete disregard for oncoming defenders. While this was a positive attribute in his younger days, increased concussion awareness has to make teams wonder if it is wise to bring in an older player who has a history of taking big hits, including three concussions over a span of 10 months.

In addition to Edelman, the Patriots also have Danny Amendola and Brandon LaFell, who at this point in their careers are bigger threats than Welker. The admission that he is open to a return to New England is likely going to be a one-sided interest on Welker’s behalf, unless their former receiver is ready to come back to the team at little cost.

More from FanSided

Home/New England Patriots