BY SEAN DONOVAN
The New England Patriots and leading receiver Julian Edelman worked towards an extension late into the negotiating window, but weren't able to come to terms.
According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, Edelman will test free agency when it officially opens at 4:00 p.m. Tuesday. Multiple reports stated that New England had a three-year deal on the table, but Edelman will instead opt to see what the market determines his value to be.
Losing Edelman would be a tough break for a Patriots offense lacking experienced pass-catchers. His 105 receptions, 1,056 yards and six touchdowns all led the team by considerable margins, and he also fielded 35 of New England's 26 punt returns.
The team's second leading receiver from 2013, the oft-injured Danny Amendola, has been mentioned as a possible trade or release candidate.
The Boston Globe reports that Edelman would still prefer to re-sign with the Patriots, the team that he spent his first five NFL seasons with, and that negotiations between the sides will continue.
Edelman was a free agent last offseason as well, but returned to New England on a one-year, $765,000 contract. His starring role this past season will ensure that he gets a much, much bigger payday this time around.
Follow Sean @seanldonovan
Follow AFC East Daily @AFCEastDaily
