Swimming in uncharted water

Wes Welker, 31, has been a staple for the New England Patriots since they acquired him from the Miami Dolphins in 2007. He finished last season with a team high of 118 catches for six touchdowns and 1,354 yards. He is the also first player in NFL history to have five seasons with at least 110 catches. In his time with the Pats, he has averaged 112 catches. With such a pedigree, one would think the Patriots wouldn't want to squander a chance to keep him in a New England uniform. This, though, may not be the case.

According to sources, Wes Welker is planning to test the free-agent market this off season before signing any contracts. Wes Welker is an unrestricted free agent this off-season, and therefore, can sign with any team of his choosing. During the last season, the Patriots used their franchise tag on Welker, but did not offer it to anyone for the upcoming season. If the Patriots did place the tag on Welker again, they would need to give him a 20 percent pay increase from his 2012 salary of $9.5 million.

Welker came into the NFL in 2004 from Texas Tech as an undrafted rookie. He initially signed with the San Diego Chargers, but was released after the first game of the season. Welker was then picked up by the Miami Dolphins, where he played for the 2004-2006 seasons. He was acquired by the Patriots in 2007 for a second and seventh round pick. Since being traded, Welker has caught more passes than any other player in the NFL. He has been to two Super Bowls with the Patriots, with both ending in losses to the New York Giants.

Though Tom Brady took a pay cut this year to try and help the brass build a team around him, his number one target may be headed for greener pastures. Only time will tell where Welker ends up for the 2013-2014 season.

Photo courtesy of Her Game Life