Welker has '$9.5 million reasons not to miss games'

Photo: Karen Cardoza, Flickr 

BY SEAN DONOVAN

Wes Welker is looking for a long-term contract befitting of such a productive player who is a vital part of one of the NFL's premier offenses. Unlike some players in his situation, it looks like Welker isn't willing to miss games in a holdout to get that done.

"There's $9.5 million reasons why I won't miss any regular season games," Welker told Boston's WEEI radio on Monday, referring to the amount of money he'll be paid under the franchise tag.

While the tag will pay Welker more than four times what he earned last year in 2012, he's seeking a multi-year deal to secure his financial future and ensure he stays in New England.

The two sides are reportedly continuing to work out a contract, but Welker remains non-committal on whether or not he will hold out of training camp. He has yet to participate in any of New England's offseason programs.

The Patriots have been busy signing veteran receivers this offseason, but none would likely be able to replace Welker's production and dependability if he were to miss games in a contract dispute.

Since being traded to the Patriots from the Dolphins in 2007, Welker has led the NFL in receptions three times and been named an All Pro twice. He's been quarterback Tom Brady's most reliable target but dropped a crucial pass in the Super Bowl loss to the Giants.

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