Wes Welker and the New England Patriots failed to reach a compromise on a long-term contract Monday. As a result, the 31-year-old wide receiver will play the 2012 season under the team's franchise tag before becoming an unrestricted free agent. Negotiations between the two sides were rocky throughout the offseason despite Welker coming off a career season during which he caught 122 passes for 1,569 yards and nine touchdowns.
Wes Welker, Patriots Can’t Agree To Contract Before Deadline
The Patriots and Wes Welker have failed to reach agreement on a long-term contract, per a source with knowledge of the situation.
— Albert Breer (@AlbertBreer) July 16, 2012
Welker will earn $9.5 million next season under the franchise tender. In 2011, he played under a one-year tender despite an offer for two years, $16 million from the Pats. The organization reportedly offered less during contract negotiations in May.
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