Ever so reluctantly it would appear that free agent wide receiver Wes Welker is beginning to accept his fate as an eventual retiree in the NFL. Although, if another opportunity came knocking, he might just answer the door.
"I'm more on the side of retirement than I am on playing, but I haven't shut the door," Wes Welker told @JoeRoseShow about retirement.
— Omar Kelly (@OmarKelly) June 8, 2016
Originally undrafted, Welker played with five teams during his 12-year NFL career. His six-year stretch with the New England Patriots from 2007-2012 were undoubtedly his best. During this period of time, Welker was Tom Brady’s go-to slot receiver when he tallied 7,459 yards and 37 touchdowns.
After failing to come to terms on a contract extension with New England, Welker landed with the Denver Broncos in 2013, and his production took a severe nosedive. Multiple injuries and concussions hampered Welker’s performance during his two seasons in Denver.
In 2015, Welker went unsigned until mid-season when the Rams took a chance on him. Barely an afterthought in the Rams’ offense, Welker recorded a total of only 13 receptions for 102 yards and zero touchdowns.
At 35, Welker remains one of the oldest free agent receivers in the NFL. He last worked out with the Miami Dolphins on Monday. Though, it is reported that he may just be a “semi-regular guest at practices” to serve as a mentor, according to Hal Habib of Palm Beach Post.
At some point, Welker must realize that putting his body and brain at risk for more injury and trauma just isn’t worth it. Whether that realization hits him or not remains to be seen.