Add Wes Welker to the list of NFL super stars unhappy with the direction of long-term contract talks. The New England Patriots told the Boston Herald that contract talks with the Patriots have "gotten worse" recently.
In 2011, the Patriots offered Welker a two-year deal worth $16 million, all of it guaranteed. Welker says that the most recent offer from his team is worth less than the 2011 offer.
On Tuesday, Welker signed the Patriots' franchise tender worth $9.5 million for the 2012 season. He would be eligible for free agency in 2013 if the two sides cannot agree to a new contract.
Welker acknowledged that he considered a hold out this season. He decided against it, and signed the franchise tender citing a desire to get back on the field and work with his team. Welker also made it clear that his future in New England may not be up to him.
"I think the best thing you can do, as far as the Patriots, is be there and let them make the decision if they want to do something longterm or not. Obviously, I want to be there. I want to help the team win. I want a championship and all those things. I'm trying to do everything to make that happen, and I'll let everything else take care of itself."
For more on Welker and the Patriots, head over to the SB Nation blog Pats Pulpit. Check out SBN Boston for more news from around the area.