New England Patriots WR Wes Welker absent from team workouts - NFL News
Franchise tenders are not particularly liked by players and New England Patriots wide receiver, Wes Welker is no different as he did not show up on the first day of the work outs.
The receiver has become one of quarterback, Tom Brady’s favourite weapons on the field and as both New England and Welker failed to agree on a new deal the Patriots put the tag on one of their star players to keep him from entering free agency.
Sources close to the team have revealed that Welker had not showed up at Monday’s practice session but since the workouts are voluntary it would be bigger news if Welker held out of coming in for the training camp which will begin in May.
On Thursday, Welker had talked about his contract with the media and said that he is in no hurry.
"Still looking to try and decide on that. I'm in no rush and we'll figure it out. Me and my agent, we're all on the same page with everything. Just looking to move forward and looking forward to the 2012 season."
Both parties are still in talks over a new deal. Welker does have the option of signing the tender which will pay him approximately $ 9.5 million for the season.
The wide receiver unlike other big stars who were given the franchise tag is not frustrated or angry with it and in an earlier interview Welker said that he is not unhappy with the Patriots.
"Yeah, for sure. It will be half of what I made my whole contract this past (time) around. Not too bad."
Welker had a brilliant 2011-12 season as he combined well with Brady to put up his best statistics yet and helped the Patriots reach another Super Bowl final.
The receiver made 122-receptions, the highest in the league, for a gain of 1,569 yards and scored nine touchdowns.
However, he made one big mistake that marred what had been a wonderful season. In the Super Bowl game against New York Giants, Welker was open to a throw from Brady but fumbled his catch.
That catch if made would have helped the Patriots continue their drive and potentially win the game but his fumble ended up in reigniting the Giants who pushed forward and won the game lifting their second Lombardi Trophy in the process with quarterback,
Eli Manning.
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