When Wes Welker was hit with the franchise tag earlier this offseason, he said he was looking forward to signing a long term deal that would take him until 2016-2017 or so, so he could play the rest of his career in a Patriots uniform. Owner Bob Kraft seconded that sentiment today, showing the front office’s support for Welker and saying that he wants him to be a “Patriot for life.”

Kraft did acknowledge that it would take two sides to get a deal done, but after an alleged squabble between the two sides earlier this week, it sounds like the two sides are still on good terms. Welker has so far not been offered anything more than a deal he said was worse than the 2 years, 16 million he was offered last season, but he doesn’t seem too upset about it.

Unlike many franchise players, Welker seems content to play out next season under the 9.5 million dollar franchise tag if he has to. Welker, a class act, understands the Patriot way and that he’s not irreplaceable and that he might not have similar success elsewhere. He’d be more than happy with 9.5 million this year, but obviously wants a long term deal. Ownership does too so we’ll have to see how this plays out.

[switch_ad_hub]

[switch_ad_hub]

[switch_ad_hub]