When you talk about the New England Patriots, you talk about controlling the real estate in the middle of the field and Wes Welker out of the slot, in the middle of the field, there is none better right now in the National Football League. He is vital to that offense,” Schlereth said. Added Rice: “He brings a dimension to the game where safeties and linebackers can not cover this guy one on one. I’m sure they’re going to put the franchise tag on him.
New England Patriots Blog – ESPN Boston
I have to say I’m kind of surprised by the number of Patriots fans that are saying the Pats should let Welker walk, and replace him with a combination of Hernandez and Edelman.
I like Edelman but to suggest he’s even close to the same level of Welker is a stretch. And forcing Hernandez to serve more as a Wide Receiver would take away from how well you can disguise what you’re doing with him.
Hernandez has also missed time in both of his first two seasons. If that happened again without Welker you’re looking at Gronk, Edelman, maybe Branch and whatever free agent/rookie you bring in? Even if that is Brando Lloyd and a first round rook I don’t feel confident.
If we learned anything with the 2006 Branch debacle it’s to make sure you keep receivers that Brady has synergy with. Hoodie knows those players are becoming harder and harder to find so I say keeping Welker on the Pats is a top priority, and letting him walk is not an option.