Will Welker continue at his typical rate?
New England Patriots wide receiver Wes Welker (83) during an NFL football training camp in Foxborough, Mass., Friday, Aug. 17, 2012. Wes Welker has been a focal point of the New England offense since landing with the Patriots in 2007.
Emerging as Tom Brady’s favorite target early in his tenure, the slot receiver has averaged 110 catches per season and solidified himself as one of the most dangerous weapons in the NFL.
But the offense is evolving and becoming more diverse. As more weapons are brought in, someone is going to have to give up a little ammunition so others can flourish.
It’s important for Welker to continue to perform at his typical level if he hopes to be rewarded with the multi-year contract he so desires after the season, but will he have enough passes thrown his way to keep his numbers steady?
We set the line at 110 catches for Welker for today’s topic of discussion.
Erik Frenz, AFC East Lead Blogger: OVER
Three things are certain in life: Death, taxes, and Wes Welker hauling in over 100 receptions when healthy. He will probably still be Brady's favorite target over the middle and on third down despite all the additions at receiver. Plus, playing under the franchise tag, you can bet good money he'll be as motivated as ever to produce.
Mike Dussault, Pats Propaganda: UNDER
The Pats have developed other underneath threats and don't need to continue to overuse Welker. He should still have 80-plus catches but Hernandez, Gronk, Lloyd and even Gaffney should take some catches away from Welker. And I hope that somehow makes him more likely to be back in 2013, but I doubt it will.
Nick Underhill, MassLive.com: UNDER
I’m with Mike on this one. There’s no need to be overly reliant on Welker this season. I know that he’s exceeded 110 catches in four of his five seasons with the Pats, with 2010, when he was still recovering from ACL surgery, being the exception. But the offense has never been as diverse as it is now. Rob Gronkowski and Aaron Hernandez should continue to take on increased roles in the offense, and Brandon Lloyd will be a focal point outside of the numbers. There are only so many passes to go around. They have to come from somewhere.
Stay tuned as we roll out a new over/under each morning for the next six days.