News: Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning said Monday he's looking forward to working with new receiver Wes Welker. Manning hopes he and Welker can develop a strong rapport soon. “Certainly he’s made a lot of plays in New England," Manning said. "He’s been great in the red zone. You’ve seen him catch a lot of touchdowns from [quarterback] Tom [Brady]. The two of them have had great timing—and that developed over time as well. I don’t think you can just say, ‘Hey, we’re going to have that right away.’ It’s going to take time. Of course, you want to try to get on the same page as quickly as possible. It was important to start the workouts we got in last week and use these what we call Phase One and Phase Two and minicamps and OTAs and training camp—every repetition with him will be important. I think he provides some unique things. He has unbelievable quickness, he’s excellent with the ball in his hands on those little screen passes. You’ve seen him get upfield quickly, and I’ve always thought he’s had a nose for the end zone.”
Analysis: Welker is expected to be the No. 3 receiver for the Broncos and play in the slot, but he's not coming off the field very often. He should remain a highly productive player for the Broncos, and his Fantasy value is very high in Denver with Manning. Consider Welker a solid No. 2 Fantasy receiver in standard leagues with the potential to be a No. 1 option still in PPR formats. He's worth drafting as early as Round 3 or 4.
News:Peyton Manning and his top three Broncos receivers worked out together in North Carolina recently under the watchful eye of Duke Blue Devils head football coach (and former QB coach for Peyton) David Cutcliffe. That includes new Broncos wideout Wes Welker. It was the first time Manning threw to Welker as teammates, and they hit it off. "There's certain guys you just feel like you have timing with right away," Manning told ESPN. "... He's a guy that has a great feel for how to get open and understands route concepts and, of course, he's played in such a sophisticated offense there in New England. So he's a smart player and you can see why he's been such a productive player. He's intense. He loves to work. ... It's kind of inspiring for an old player like me to be around guys that love to work. It makes me proud to play quarterback."
Analysis: We suspected Manning and Welker would get together for workouts on their own and this is probably just the beginning. Welker should immediately carve out a role in the Denver offense similar to the one he had with the Patriots, opening up the door for him to be about as productive as he's been the past few years. Ultimately every Broncos game will come down to how opposing defenses choose to cover Welker, Thomas and Decker and that will determine who gets the big stats. Welker should come out on the strong end of most games. Welker will end up retaining most of his Fantasy value as a very good No. 2 Fantasy WR (we were nervous about him leaving New England but this is a good landing spot). Expect Welker to come in at under 100 catches but still topple 1,000 yards and six or seven touchdowns. That still keeps him as a No. 2 Fantasy WR worth a pick in Rounds 3 or 4.
News: Broncos coach John Fox said at the NFL owners meetings in Phoenix on Tuesday that he's looking forward to using new receiver Wes Welker. "It’s about matchups," Fox said. "Whether you put a third wideout in or a fullback. I’m not going to bore you with the lingo, but it’s all about matchups. I know from defending Wes Welker for years, what a tough matchup he is. When you trot that particular personnel group out there and you have names like Demaryius Thomas, Eric Decker and Wes Welker, they can’t double all three of them. They have to pick and choose, and you figure out what that is and try to exploit what they do. The biggest thing with him is that he has skins on the wall. He’s been a very productive player in our league — and recently — and is a tough matchup. We’re excited to have him.”
Analysis: Welker is expected to be the No. 3 receiver for the Broncos and play in the slot, but he's not coming off the field very often. He should remain a highly productive player for the Broncos, and his Fantasy value is very high in Denver with Peyton Manning. Consider Welker a solid No. 2 Fantasy receiver in standard leagues with the potential to be a No. 1 option still in PPR formats. He's worth drafting as early as Round 3 or 4.
News: Broncos executive vice president John Elway announced Wednesday that Wes Welker has signed a two-year deal with the Broncos, a stunning turn of events after he was believed to be with the Patriots as recently as Monday. But the cagey slot receiver couldn't agree to terms with the Patriots on an extension.
Analysis: In a previous update we dreamed about Welker landing somewhere like Denver, and now it's happening. Really, Welker would be the perfect addition to the Broncos for a number of reasons, the biggest of which being he'd be a brilliant slot option for Manning, whose arm isn't what it used to be. Welker would also open up the field for Demaryius Thomas and Eric Decker. And believe it or not, Welker will end up retaining most of his Fantasy value as a very good No. 2 Fantasy WR (we were nervous about him leaving New England but this is a good landing spot). Expect Welker to come in at under 100 catches but still topple 1,000 yards and six or seven touchdowns. That still keeps him as a No. 2 Fantasy WR worth a pick in Rounds 3 or 4.
News: NFL Network reports free agent receiver Wes Welker is "seriously considering bolting" from the Patriots after contract negotiations went sour. Welker wasn't offered what he had hoped. Talks broke off Tuesday and it is believed Welker will shop himself around to other teams.
Analysis: This pessimistic report throws water on previous reports that suggested a deal with the Patriots will eventually get done. Fantasy owners should root for Welker and the Pats to make up and agree to a deal but it could be time for him to move on. The teams with cap space don't really have perfect situations for Welker, who needs to have the exact same role he's had for all these years in New England in order to be successful. So while the idea of him playing with Drew Brees or Peyton Manning sounds delightful, the reality is those teams don't have the money to give him -- for now. If Welker moves on from New England his expectations could slip significantly.
News: Patriots owner Robert Kraft told the New York Daily News Monday he wants to keep receiver Wes Welker on his team. "We want Wes [Welker]. We really do." Kraft later told ESPN "I love Wes Welker. I hope he remains a Patriot for life. Just like Tom Brady." Welker is set to be a free agent but multiple reports suggest he'll stay with the Patriots.
Analysis: Welker put up yet another banner campaign in 2012, catching 118 passes to mark his fifth career 100-catch season. He's had at least 1,165 yards in each of those five seasons and over 1,325 yards in three of them. He's also had six-plus touchdowns in each of his last three seasons. For now let's cast aside worries about Welker leaving New England and hope a deal will be reached shortly between the two sides. With that being the case Welker should prove to be a Top 15 receiver worth a pick in late Round 4 in standard leagues and late Round 3 in PPR leagues.
News:Sports Illustrated reported Monday that Wes Welker is "widely believed to be staying in New England." There were a series of reports leading up to the start of free agency that Welker was going to test free agency before deciding on a team.
Analysis: After considering the teams with salary cap space and the need for a receiver (Buffalo, Cleveland and Miami among them) we'd love for Welker to stay with the Patriots. He put up yet another banner campaign in 2012, catching 118 passes to mark his fifth career 100-catch season. He's had at least 1,165 yards in each of those five seasons and over 1,325 yards in three of them. He's also had six-plus touchdowns in each of his last three seasons. For now let's cast aside worries about Welker leaving New England and hope a deal will be reached shortly between the two sides. With that being the case Welker should prove to be a Top 15 receiver worth a pick in late Round 4 in standard leagues and late Round 3 in PPR leagues.
News: The latest news on Wes Welker is that there's "nothing imminent" between him and the Patriots, a source told Comcast Sportsnet. However, the the team and the player are "closer than they've ever been on getting something done." ESPN reported Wednesday Welker would first test free agency before deciding where to end up while the Boston Globe believed Welker will eventually remain a Patriot.
Analysis: After considering the teams with salary cap space and the need for a receiver (Buffalo, Cleveland and Miami among them) we'd love for Welker to stay with the Patriots. He put up yet another banner campaign in 2012, catching 118 passes to mark his fifth career 100-catch season. He's had at least 1,165 yards in each of those five seasons and over 1,325 yards in three of them. He's also had six-plus touchdowns in each of his last three seasons. For now let's cast aside worries about Welker leaving New England and hope a deal will be reached shortly between the two sides. With that being the case Welker should prove to be a Top 15 receiver worth a pick in late Round 4 in standard leagues and late Round 3 in PPR leagues.
News:Wes Welker continues to be a popular topic in the NFL universe as the Boston Globe reported Wednesday afternoon that when all is said and done involving Welker as a free agent, he's still expected to be a Patriot. Earlier Wednesday ESPN reported Welker would first test free agency before deciding where to end up. On Tuesday multiple outlets said Welker was close to a deal that would keep him in New England for the rest of his career.
Analysis: After considering the teams with salary cap space and the need for a receiver (Buffalo, Cleveland and Miami among them) we'd love for Welker to stay with the Patriots. He put up yet another banner campaign in 2012, catching 118 passes to mark his fifth career 100-catch season. He's had at least 1,165 yards in each of those five seasons and over 1,325 yards in three of them. He's also had six-plus touchdowns in each of his last three seasons. For now let's cast aside worries about Welker leaving New England and hope a deal will be reached shortly between the two sides. With that being the case Welker should prove to be a Top 15 receiver worth a pick in late Round 4 in standard leagues and late Round 3 in PPR leagues.
News: A day after receiver Wes Welker was reportedly close to a deal with the Patriots, ESPN reported Wednesday he will first test free agency. It is still believed, per the report, that Welker will stay with the Pats. Previously, multiple outlets said Welker was close to a deal that would keep him in New England for the rest of his career.
Analysis: Welker must not have liked the offers the Patriots made even after they cleared up cap space by extending Tom Brady. Teams looking for a new offensive dimension and have the cap space to sign Welker include Buffalo, Cleveland, Tampa Bay, Kansas City and Miami. Not one of those teams have a quarterback we'd feel great about Welker catching passes from. If he switches teams and offenses then we'd get nervous about his potential to post a sixth straight year with over 1,165 yards. His Fantasy value will be highest if he stays with the Patriots. We'll keep an eye on him for you.
News: After the Boston Globe reported the Patriots are expected to "hammer out" a deal with free agent receiver Wes Welker, Comcast Sportsnet chimed in to say the two sides are closing in on a multi-year deal that would result in Welker finishing his career with the Patriots.
Analysis: All signs point toward Welker staying with the Patriots, especially after quarterback Tom Brady restructured his contract. Welker put up yet another banner campaign in 2012, catching 118 passes to mark his fifth career 100-catch season. He's had at least 1,165 yards in each of those five seasons and over 1,325 yards in three of them. He's also had six-plus touchdowns in each of his last three seasons. For now let's cast aside worries about Welker leaving New England and hope a deal will be reached shortly between the two sides. With that being the case Welker should prove to be a Top 15 receiver worth a pick in late Round 4 in standard leagues and late Round 3 in PPR leagues.
News: The franchise tag wasn't applied to receiver Wes Welker on Monday. But Comcast Sportsnet reports there's been "progress" between the two sides on a new deal. If a contract can't be worked out Welker will officially be a free agent by mid-March.
Analysis: When Tom Brady signed his contract extension earlier this offseason it opened the door for Welker to stay with the team. Hopefully that happens. Welker put up yet another banner campaign in 2012, catching 118 passes to mark his fifth career 100-catch season. He's had at least 1,165 yards in each of those five seasons and over 1,325 yards in three of them. He's also had six-plus touchdowns in each of his last three seasons. Though there is some fear about how Welker will be utilized if he leaves the Patriots, his ability to shed defenders in tight spaces makes him a good target for the quarterback and thus a very nice Fantasy option. We're still hoping he stays with the Patriots, where his value would be at its highest save for an unlikely move where he could still easily land 100 catches from an elite passer.
News: The Patriots and representatives for Wes Welker are discussing a contract extension according to the Boston Herald. This news comes in the wake of the Patriots freeing up cap room by extending Tom Brady's contract by three years. Welker is not expected to get tagged for the second year in a row.
Analysis: Welker put up yet another banner campaign in 2012, catching 118 passes to mark his fifth career 100-catch season. He's had at least 1,165 yards in each of those five seasons and over 1,325 yards in three of them. He's also had six-plus touchdowns in each of his last three seasons. Though there is some fear about how Welker will be utilized if he leaves the Patriots, his ability to shed defenders in tight spaces makes him a good target for the quarterback and thus a very nice Fantasy option. We're still hoping he stays with the Patriots, where his value would be at its highest save for an unlikely move where he could still easily land 100 catches from an elite passer.
News: Citing a source "with intimate knowledge of the team’s thinking," the Boston Herald reports the Patriots will not use the franchise tag on Wes Welker this offseason, clearing him for free agency.
Analysis: Welker put up yet another banner campaign in 2012, catching 118 passes to mark his fifth career 100-catch season. He's had at least 1,165 yards in each of those five seasons and over 1,325 yards in three of them. He's also had six-plus touchdowns in each of his last three seasons. Though there is some fear about how Welker will be utilized if he leaves the Patriots, his ability to shed defenders in tight spaces makes him a good target for the quarterback and thus a very nice Fantasy option. We're still hoping he stays with the Patriots, where his value would be at its highest save for an unlikely move to a team like New Orleans where he could still easily land 100 catches from an elite passer.
News: According to NESN.com, Patriots receiver Wes Welker finds his future up in the air following the loss in the AFC Championship Game against Baltimore. Welker is a free agent this offseason and doesn't know if he will return to New England in 2013. “I’m not sure. I’m really not worried about it at all,” he said. Welker put up yet another banner campaign in 2012, catching 118 passes to mark his fifth career 100-catch season. Quarterback Tom Brady made it clear that he wanted his favorite target back in a Patriots uniform next season, calling Welker the “heart and soul” of the Patriots during his weekly appearance on WEEI. Coach Bill Belichick, however, took a different approach to the free agency topic. “We will not make any decisions on any players into the future now,” Belichick said. “I don’t think you can, as much as you want to just go case by case and list each guy and what his deal is. I think that there is some of that, no question — but at the same time, when you’re trying to put together a team, you’ve got to look at the entire team before you just say, ‘OK, well, we want to try to keep this guy. Well, we don’t want to keep this guy,’ or ‘We want to try to get somebody else,’ or whatever.”
Analysis: We'll find out if Welker is able to stay in New England, and if he does he would remain a must-start Fantasy option in all leagues. If he leaves the Patriots then his value will decline because losing Brady could be detrimental to his production.
News: Patriots receiver Wes Welker turned in another stellar performance as he found the end zone and posted his third-career 100-yard game in the postseason during Sunday's AFC Championship Game. Welker scored on a short 1-yard pass from To, Brady on a third-and-one play in the second quarter. He racked up a team-high 117 yards on eight catches in a 28-13 defeat. He was targeted 12 times in the elimination game.
Analysis: Welker caught nearly everything thrown his way and was able to hit the century mark in his only two postseason games this season. Before this season Welker only had one 100-yard game in the playoffs. While Welker was only able to find the end zone six times this season, he still registered his fifth season with at least 100 receptions, which is an NFL record and racked up over 1,300 yards receiving for the second straight season and third time in his career. Welker will be a free agent next season so Fantasy owners will have to keep an eye on where he will wind up. If he ends up re-signing with the Patriots, Welker would be considered a No. 1 Fantasy WR, likely taken as early as in Round 3 come Draft Day.
News: Patriots receiver Wes Welker is ready to face the Ravens in the AFC Championship Game on Sunday. Welker is coming off a dominant game against the Texans last week with eight catches for 131 yards. It was the eighth time this season he caught at least eight passes, and he reached double digits in Fantasy points for the ninth time. In Week 3 at Baltimore, Welker had eight catches for 142 yards on 10 targets, and he has registered double digits in targets 12 times this season.
Analysis: Welker should again remain involved with Rob Gronkowski (forearm) out. The Ravens have allowed a receiver to score or gain 100 yards in each of their past six games. We like Welker as a must-start option in any Playoff Challenge game.
News: Patriots wide receiver Wes Welker posted team highs in catches (eight) and yards (131) during New England's 41-28 victory over Houston in an AFC Divisional Playoff game Sunday. Welker finished with at least eight receptions for eighth time this season as he set the franchise record for most postseason catches with 59 (in eight games). Troy Brown held the previous record with 58 receptions (20 games). Welker finished with 13 targets from quarterback Tom Brady for a sterling average of 16.4 yards per reception.
Analysis: Welker boosted his yardage total with an impressive one-handed grab that went for 47 yards -- his second-longest catch of the season -- and surpassed the century mark for the first time since Week 13 at Miami. He remains the most-targeted receiver on the team and has registered double-digits in looks a whopping 12 times this season, including Sunday's playoff opener for the Patriots. Fantasy owners should continue to view Welker as a high-end option in playoff formats for the AFC Championship against Baltimore. He is also regarded as an early round pick in all drafts for the 2013 season, especially PPR leagues.
News: Patriots receiver Wes Welker is playing well heading into the Divisional round of the playoffs against the Texans. Welker closed the season with 18 catches for 182 yards and two touchdowns on 24 targets against Jacksonville and Miami in his final two games. He did struggle against the Texans in Week 14 with three catches for 52 yards on nine targets. Houston has allowed four receivers to reach double digits in Fantasy points in the past five games.
Analysis: We expect Welker to play at a high level in the playoffs, and he's worth starting in most Playoff Challenge leagues. He should have a better game against the Texans in the rematch, especially playing at home. Start him where needed in most postseason formats.
News: Patriots wide receiver Wes Welker turned in another productive performance against the Dolphins in Week 17. Welker, who was averaging 108.4 yards receiving in his 10 career games against Miami, hauled in eight receptions for 94 yards in the 28-0 win, including his sixth touchdown reception of the year. He was on the receiving end of a 9-yard dart from Tom Brady in the first quarter of the win, which was his sixth career TD reception against the Dolphins.
Analysis: Welker was once again able to torch the Dolphins Sunday, but that shouldn't have come as much as a surprise as he has owned Miami since arriving in New England. While Welker was only able to find the end zone six times this season, he still registered his fifth season with at least 100 receptions, which is an NFL record and racked up over 1,300 yards receiving for the second straight season and third time in his career. Welker will be a free agent next season so Fantasy owners will have to keep an eye on where he will wind up. If he ends up re-signing with the Patriots, Welker would be considered a No. 1 Fantasy WR heading into 2013.
News: Patriots wide receiver Wes Welker was ruled active for Week 17 against the Dolphins, despite being limited in practice with a lingering ankle injury. Welker looks to have a favorable matchup on tap this week as the Dolphins are surrendering an average of 247 yards passing per game. Welker has racked up more than 100 receiving yards in four of his last five matchups versus the division foe, including earlier this season when he finished with 12 receptions for 103 yards and a touchdown in Week 13.
Analysis: Welker has feasted on the Dolphins in the past has averaged 108.4 yards receiving in his 10 career games against Miami and found the end zone five times over that stretch. The veteran is in the midst of another outstanding season with the Patriots and enters the final week of the season as the 15th highest scoring WR, in terms of Fantasy points, in all CBSSports.com standard formats. Fantasy owners should make sure to get the 31-year-old active in all formats this week. The Dolphins have allowed an average of 20.5 Fantasy points to opposing WRs, which ranks 14th overall.
News: New England wide receiver Wes Welker is labeled questionable for Week 17 against Miami as he continues to deal with a minor ankle issue. Welker was a limited participant in practice throughout the past week, but is expected to stay active for Sunday's game. He has averaged 108.4 yards receiving in his 10 career games against Miami and found the end zone five times. He has racked up more than 100 receiving yards in four of his last five matchups versus the division foe, including earlier this season when he finished with 12 receptions for 103 yards and a touchdown in Week 13. Miami enters the contest ranked 25th in pass defense, allowing an average of 247 yards passing per game.
Analysis: Welker has enjoyed facing off against his former as Miami is one of only four teams the 31-year-old has averaged more than 100 receiving yards per game against. Still, the Dolphins have fared well in limiting opposing wideouts this season, yielding an average of 20.5 Fantasy points to the position, which ranks 14th overall. However, Welker is in the midst of another outstanding season with the Patriots and enters the final week of the season as the 15th highest scoring WR, in terms of Fantasy points, in all CBSSports.com standard formats. Fantasy owners should continue to roll with Welker as a high-end option in all formats for Week 17.
News: Patriots wide receiver Wes Welker looks to have a favorable matchup on tap in Week 17 against the Dolphins. Welker has averaged 108.4 yards receiving in his 10 career games against Miami and found the end zone five times over that stretch. He has racked up over 100 receiving yards in four of his last five matchups vs. the division foe, including earlier this season when he finished with 12 receptions for 103 yards and a touchdown back in Week 13. Miami enters the contest ranked 25th in pass defense, allowing an average of 247 yards passing per game.
Analysis: Welker has enjoyed playing the Dolphins over his career as Miami is only one of four teams that the 31-year-old has averaged over 100 receiving yards per game against. Still, the Dolphins have done well in limiting the production of opposing widepouts this season as they are yielding an average of 20.5 Fantasy points to the position, which ranks 14th overall. However, Welker is in the midst of another outstanding season with the Patriots and enters the final week of the season as the 15th highest scoring WR, in terms of Fantasy points, in all CBSSports.com standard formats. Fantasy owners should continue to roll with Welker as a high-end option in all formats this week.
News: New England wide receiver Wes Welker was once again in double figures in catches on Sunday during the Week 16 win at Jacksonville. Welker hauled in 10 passes from quarterback Tom Brady as he led the team with 88 receiving yards and a touchdown. Welker caught a 2-yard TD pass from Brady in the fourth quarter. He was targeted 12 times and added one rushing attempt for 9 yards in the game.
Analysis: Welker was back to his usual excellent production Patriots after being limited, at least for him, in the previous two games. He continues to post consistent and viable Fantasy production week in and week out. He's always good for steady numbers and does sometimes have huge performances with Brady throwing the passes. He plays against Miami in the regular-season finale Week 17 with playoff implications on the line. Welker caught 12 passes for 103 yards and a score Week 13 in Miami and should be active in all Fantasy formats for Week 17.
News: Patriots wideout Wes Welker is active and starting in the Week 16 game at Jacksonville. Welker continues to deal with a lingering ankle injury, but it was never expected to keep him out despite his questionable designation for the game against the Jaguars. The last time Welker faced Jacksonville, back in 2009, he caught 13 passes for 138 yards in the game. In two career games against the Jaguars, Welker has 18 catches for 182 yards without a score. Jacksonville is easier scored upon on the ground than through the air, as the team has allowed only one WR touchdown in the last three weeks. Of course, they have allowed four touchdowns in the last five weeks.
Analysis: Welker should still see plenty of targets from quarterback Tom Brady in the Week 16 game, though we do expect the Patriots to pound the ground game against a team that struggles stopping the run. Stevan Ridley should see plenty of touches as well as Danny Woodhead but you just know Brady will be looking Welker's way early and often as well. Welker has become the first player in NFL history with five 100-catch seasons and we don't expect him to slow down in this one. Fantasy owners should keep him active in all formats for Sunday's game against the Jaguars.
News: New England wide receiver Wes Welker is considered questionable for Week 16 at Jacksonville as he continues to deal with a lingering ankle issue. Welker, who was a limited participant in practice over the past week, is not expected to miss any playing time. The last time Welker faced Jacksonville, back in 2009, he caught 13 passes for 138 yards in the game. In two career games against the Jaguars, Welker has 18 catches for 182 yards without a score. Jacksonville is easier scored upon on the ground than through the air, as the team has allowed only one WR touchdown in the last three weeks. Of course, they have allowed four touchdowns in the last five weeks.
Analysis: The Patriots are expected to pound the ground game with Stevan Ridley and company against the Jaguars. That said, we still expect Tom Brady to look to the air plenty with Welker often in his sights. Welker has become the first player in NFL history with five 100-catch seasons and we don't expect him to slow down in this one. Fantasy owners should keep him active in all formats for Sunday's game against the Jaguars.
News: New England wide receiver Wes Welker heads into the Week 16 game at Jacksonville looking for an encore performance against the Jaguars. The last time Welker faced Jacksonville, back in 2009, he caught 13 passes for 138 yards in the game. In two career games against the Jaguars, Welker has 18 catches for 182 yards without a score. Jacksonville is easier scored upon on the ground than through the air, as they have allowed only one WR touchdown in the last three weeks. Of course, they have allowed four touchdowns in the last five weeks.
Analysis: The Patriots are expected to pound the ground game with Stevan Ridley and company against the Jaguars. That said, we still expect Tom Brady to look to the air plenty with Welker often in his sights. Welker has become the first player in NFL history with five 100-catch seasons and we don't expect him to slow down in this one. Fantasy owners should keep him active in just about all formats for the game against the Jaguars.
News: Patriots wide receiver Wes Welker struggled to get going early on during Sunday's contest against the 49ers in Week 15. Welker failed to make a catch in the first half and did not come up with his first grab until midway through the third quarter. He was targeted nine times and finished with five catches for 56 yards in a 41-34 defeat. He was the team's third-leading receiver behind Brandon Lloyd (190 yards) and Aaron Hernandez (92 yards) on the night. Welker now has 100 catches this season, which is the fifth time he has reached that number, an NFL record.
Analysis: Welker has struggled a bit as of late as he has failed to surpass 60 yards receiving in each of his last two games, against the Texans and Niners. In fact, he has just eight catches for 108 yards in 18 targets over that span. Though he underachieved, he has caught a pass in 108 consecutive games, dating back to his days with the Dolphins. We expect him to bounce back in a favorable matchup against the lowly Jaguars. Jacksonville has allowed 20.9 Fantasy points per game this season to opposing wide receivers. Fantasy owners should continue to roll with the 31-year-old as a must-start option in all formats heading into Week 16 at Jacksonville.
News: As expected, Patriots wide receiver Wes Welker was officially ruled active for Sunday's contest against the 49ers in Week 15. Welker, who is dealing with a lingering ankle injury, was limited in practice throughout the week and originally labeled questionable for Sudnay's game. He turned in a mediocre performance as he was not able to come up with most of the passes thrown his way against the Texans, catching just three passes for 52 yards on nine targets in Week 14. He'll try to get back on track against a San Francisco defense that has allowed just 138 passing yards per games to opposing wide receivers over the last four games.
Analysis: Welker was never in danger of missing Sunday's game, so it's nice to see him active and ready to go as expected. Though he had several drops last week, we still expect Welker to be involved with Tom Brady in the passing game. He is racked up 1,116 yards on 95 catches and four touchdowns. Welker is 454 yards away from surpassing his career-high mark set last season. He'll need to average 151 yards receiving in each of the final three games of the regular season. San Francisco has limited opposing wideouts to an average of 15.8 Fantasy points per contest. Brady should look his way to avoid San Francisco's pass rush, so consider him as a solid option in the majority of Fantasy formats heading into Week 15.
News: Patriots wide receiver Wes Welker has been limited in practice throughout the week leading up to Week 15 at home against the 49ers. Welker is listed as questionable with an ankle injury, but is expected to play. He turned in a mediocre performance as he was not able to come up with most of the passes thrown his way against the Texans, catching just three passes for 52 yards on nine targets in Week 14. He'll try to get back on track against a San Francisco defense that has allowed just 138 passing yards per games to opposing wide receivers over the last four games.
Analysis: Welker has been dealing with his lingering ankle injury but it has yet to cost him a game so he should be good to go Sunday. Though he had several drops last week, we still expect Welker to be involved with Tom Brady in the passing game. He is racked up 1,116 yards on 95 catches and four touchdowns. Welker is 454 yards away from surpassing his career-high mark set last season. He'll need to average 151 yards receiving in each of the final three games of the regular season. San Francisco has limited opposing wideouts to an average of 15.8 Fantasy points per contest. Brady should look his way to avoid San Francisco's pass rush, so consider him as a solid option in the majority of Fantasy formats heading into Week 15.
News: Patriots wide receiver Wes Welker will try to bounce back in a difficult matchup at home against the 49ers in Week 15. He was not able to come up with most of the passes thrown his way as he caught just three catches for 52 yards on nine targets in Week 14 against the Texans. He'll try to get back on track against a San Francisco defense that has allowed just 138 passing yards per games to opposing wide receivers over the last four games. Welker has been limited in practice all week with an ankle injury and is expected to suit up on Sunday.
Analysis: Welker has been dealing with his lingering ankle injury but it has yet to cost him a game so he should be good to go Sunday. Though he had several drops last week, we still expect Welker to be involved with Tom Brady in the passing game. He is racked up 1,116 yards on 95 catches and four touchdowns. Welker is 454 yards away from surpassing his career-high mark set last season. He'll need to average 151 yards receiving in each of the final three games of the regular season. San Francisco has limited opposing wideouts to an average of 15.8 Fantasy points per contest. Brady should look his way to avoid San Francisco's pass rush, so consider him as a solid option in the majority of Fantasy formats heading into Week 15.
News: After gaining 102 yards on 12 grabs his last time out, Patriots wide receiver Wes Welker was not able to come up with most of the passes thrown his way in Week 14 against the Texans. He was targeted nine times by quarterback Tom Brady, posting three catches for 52 yards in the 42-14 win. Welker had a long reception of 25 and averaged 17.3 yards per grab. Welker also gained 57 yards on five returns in the victory. “Just a couple bad plays,” Welker told the Boston Herald. “You’ve got to move on from the next ones and keep your confidence going and not let it get in your head. I didn’t do a very good job of that tonight and I’ve just got to work on this week and come back stronger next week.”
Analysis: Welker had a couple of costly drops Monday night and also had a play where he did not know he was ruled down, and was tackled within a yard of the end zone. While he had his two-game scoring streak snapped, the 31-year-old continues to be the favorite target of Brady and is five catches away from reaching 100 for the fifth time in the last six seasons. Welker could have a hard time finding room in the secondary in Week 15 against the 49ers but remains a solid play in the majority of Fantasy formats. San Francisco has limited opposing wideouts to an average of 15.8 Fantasy points per contest.
News: New England wideout Wes Welker is active and starting the Week 14 Monday night game against Houston. Welker was never expected to miss the game despite being questionable on the injury report with an ankle issue. Welker has been dealing with this injury for a while and it hasn't stopped him from playing on a weekly basis. Welker has been on quite a roll heading into his matchup against the Texans. Welker posted his 16th career game with 10-plus receptions and 100-plus receiving yards in New England's win over the Dolphins last week, which is the most in NFL history. He enters the contest with a league-leading 92 receptions on the year and will be facing a Houston defense that is surrendering an average of 235 passing yards per contest.
Analysis: More big things are expected from Welker in this Week 14 matchup. He is on pace to tie his career high of 123 receptions, which would give him 120 receptions for the third time, breaking a tie with Chris Carter. He also needs just eight more receptions to go over 100 for the fifth time in his career, which would also be an NFL record. Welker has caught at least six passes in all but two of his 12 games on the season thus far, so he has a chance to reach that mark this week against the Texans. Houston has surrendered 20 TDs through the air while yielding an average of 24.2 Fantasy points to opposing WRs on the season, which ranks 24th overall. Welker can be active in all Fantasy formats for the Week 14 game.
News: Patriots wide receiver Wes Welker is officially considered questionable for the Week 14 Monday night game against Houston with an ankle issue. Welker has been dealing with this injury for a while and it hasn't stopped him from playing on a weekly basis. Welker has been on quite a roll heading into his matchup against the Texans. Welker posted his 16th career game with 10-plus receptions and 100-plus receiving yards in New England's win over the Dolphins last week, which is the most in NFL history. He enters the contest with a league-leading 92 receptions on the year and will be facing a Houston defense that is surrendering an average of 235 passing yards per contest.
Analysis: Welker has been as good as expected this season as he is on pace to tie his career high of 123 receptions, which would give him 120 receptions for the third time, breaking a tie with Chris Carter. He also needs just eight more receptions to go over 100 for the fifth time in his career, which would also be an NFL record. Welker has caught at least six passes in all but two of his 12 games on the season thus far, so he has a chance to reach that mark this week against the Texans. Houston has surrendered 20 TDs through the air while yielding an average of 24.2 Fantasy points to opposing WRs on the season, which ranks 24th overall. Welker can be active in all Fantasy formats for the Week 14 game.
News: Patriots wide receiver Wes Welker has been on quite a roll heading into his Week 14 matchup against the Texans. Welker posted his 16th career game with 10-plus receptions and 100-plus receiving yards in New England's win over the Dolphins last week, which is the most in NFL history. He enters the contest with a league-leading 92 receptions on the year and will be facing a Houston defense that is surrendering an average of 235 passing yards per contest. The Texans have surrendered 20 TDs through the air while yielding an average of 24.2 Fantasy points to opposing WRs on the season, which ranks 24th overall.
Analysis: Welker has been as good as expected this season as he is on pace to tie his career high of 123 receptions, which would give him 120 receptions for the third time, breaking a tie with Chris Carter. He also needs just eight more receptions to go over 100 for the fifth time in his career, which would also be an NFL record. Welker has caught at least six passes in all but two of his 12 games on the season thus far, so he has a chance to reach that mark this week against the Texans. Houston has shown some deficiencies in its secondary over the last few weeks as it has allowed opposing wideouts to find the end zone five times over the past three games. Fantasy owners should continue to roll with Welker as a must-start option in all formats this week.
News: Patriots wide receiver Wes Welker joined some exclusive company in Week 13 against the Dolphins, and he also etched his name into the record books. Wes Welker brought in 12 passes on 18 targets, tying Jerry Rice with the 17th 10-catch game of his career. He also bested Rice in the game, as he totaled 103 yards receiving, giving him NFL-record 16 games with at least 10 catches and 100 receiving yards. Welker also scored his fourth touchdown of the season as well, in a 23-16 win.
Analysis: Welker also surpassed 1,000 yards in the game, giving him five seasons with at least 1,000 yards. He has 92 catches on the season with four games remaining, and is pretty much a lock to get his fifth 100-catch season as well. If Welker gets eight more catches, he will break the NFL career record for 100-catch seasons, as he is currently tied with Marvin Harrison and Jerry Rice with four. Welker probably will not be slowed in Week 14 against a Texans team that ranks just 20th in the league in Fantasy points allowed to opposing wide receivers. Keep him active in all Fantasy formats for Week 14.
News: Patriots wide receiver Wes Welker was able to take the field Sunday against the Dolphins in Week 13, despite missing some time in practice with an ankle injury. He was listed as questionable, but is not expected to be limited in the game.
Analysis: This injury has been lingering for a while, but it has yet to cost Welker a game. He is playing at a high level yet again this season, so Fantasy owners should keep him active in all formats.
News: Patriots wide receiver Wes Welker was listed on Friday's injury report as questionable for Week 13 against the Dolphins after being limited in practice three consecutive days due to an ankle issue. Miami ranks 26th in the league in pass defense, giving up over 261 yards per game, and has allowed an average of 22.3 Fantasy points to opposing wideouts.
Analysis: Welker has been dealing with his lingering ankle injury but it has yet to cost him a game so he should be good to go Sunday. He has faced Miami nine times, and is averaging 109.0 yards per game on 8.3 catches, while scoring four times. The Dolphins are the only team Welker has faced more than twice in his career while averaging more than 100 yards receiving per game. The Dolphins have shored up their porous passing defense over the last three weeks, however, holding two of three opponents under 100 yards receiving for wide receivers. Still, Welker caught 20 passes for 298 yards and two touchdowns against his former team a year ago and should remain active in all Fantasy formats as long as he plays in Week 13.
News: Patriots wide receiver Wes Welker has enjoyed facing his Week 13 opponent Miami in his career. Ever since the Dolphins traded him to New England, Welker has made torching the Dolphins a twice-yearly ritual. Welker has faced Miami nine times, and is averaging 109.0 yards per game on 8.3 catches, while scoring four times. Miami is the only team Welker has faced more than twice in his career while averaging more than 100 yards receiving per game. The Patriots head to Miami on Sunday.
Analysis: The Dolphins have shored up their porous passing defense over the last three weeks, holding two of three opponents under 100 yards receiving for wide receivers. However, they were one of the worst pass defenses in the league before that, and there is little reason to think the Patriots’ passing game won’t find room to operate. Miami is allowing 22.3 Fantasy points per game to opposing wide receivers this season, which ties them for just 18th in the league. Welker should be considered a high-end Fantasy option for Week 13.
News: Patriots wide receiver Wes Welker was able to shake off his lingering ankle injury and found the end zone for just the third time this season Thursday night against the Jets in Week 12. Tom Brady found Welker for a short 3-yard strike, which helped spark a 35-0 run in the second quarter. He caught seven of the 10 passes thrown his way for 71 yards and a touchdown in a 49-19 victory. He was the team's second-leading receiver behind Shane Vereen, who caught two passes for 91 yards in the win.
Analysis: It was nice to see Welker get back in the end zone for the first time since Week 6 and has racked up at least 70 yards in his last three games. Welker could begin to see a rise in his productions, especially with Rob Gronkowski out with a broken forearm. He'll try to keep his recent success going against a Miami defense that has allowed four touchdowns in the last four games entering Week 12. Fantasy owners should continue to roll with Welker as a viable start in all formats heading into Week 13.
News: As expected, Patriots wide receiver Wes Welker was ruled active for Thursday's contest against the Jets in Week 12. Welker, who is battling an ankle injury, was never in danger of missing Thursday's game, despite being listed on the injury report for several weeks.
Analysis: He'll face a Jets' defense that has allowed the fifth-fewest Fantasy points per game to opposing wide receivers this season. That said, they have allowed a receiver to score multiple touchdowns in back-to-back games so have come undone a bit lately. He played the Jets Week 7 and caught six passes for 66 yards. Of course, he has 30 catches for 354 yards and two touchdowns in his last five games against the AFC East rivals. Fantasy owners should continue to roll with Welker as a viable Fantasy start heading into Week 12.
News: Patriots wide receiver Wes Welker is listed as questionable for Week 12 at N.Y. Jets (Thursday) because of a lingering ankle injury. “It’s always exciting to play on Thanksgiving,” Welker said. “I wish it was an early one but it is what it is. It gives us a little more time to prepare and get ready and hopefully play well on Thursday night.”
Analysis: Welker has been on the injury report with the same ailment for several weeks and has yet to miss a game. And by the way he is talking, it doesn't appear he will be sidelined Thursday. Welker accounted for six catches for 66 yards Week 7 against the Jets. He has 30 catches for 354 yards and two touchdowns in his last five games against New York. The Jets are yielding just 17.2 Fantasy points per week to wide receivers, which is the fifth-lowest average in the league, but Welker remains a viable Fantasy start in all formats.
News: New England receiver Wes Welker is still on the injury report and limited in practice due to his lingering ankle injury, but there is less cause for concern heading into Thursday's Thanksgiving game at the New York Jets Week 12. “It’s always exciting to play on Thanksgiving,” Welker said. “I wish it was an early one but it is what it is. It gives us a little more time to prepare and get ready and hopefully play well on Thursday night.” Welker sounds excited to play and will be facing a Jets defense allowing the fifth-fewest Fantasy points per game to opposing wide receivers this season. That said, they have allowed a receiver to score multiple touchdowns in back-to-back games so have come undone a bit lately.
Analysis: Welker made some noise heading into the Week 11 game against the Colts as it looked like he might miss the game. He played and caught seven passes for 80 yards. Welker hasn't scored since Week 6 at Seattle but he has continued to consistently put up solid numbers for quarterback Tom Brady. He played the Jets Week 7 and caught six passes for 66 yards. Of course, he has 30 catches for 354 yards and two touchdowns in his last five games against the AFC East rivals. Welker will be healthy for Thanksgiving and we expect a big performance. Consider him a solid start in all Fantasy formats.
News: Patriots wide receiver Wes Welker finished with seven catches for 80 yards during New England's 59-24 win over Indianapolis in Week 11. Welker, who was targeted 11 times by quarterback Tom Brady for the second straight game, stretched his streak to 104 games with at least one reception. He has now posted double-digits in targets in seven of his 10 games this season and 105 total looks.
Analysis: Welker alleviated all concern about his playing status after he was listed as questionable on the injury report with an ankle injury. He didn't show any problems with the issue Sunday despite not practicing until Friday last week and averaged a sturdy 11.4 yards per catch. Fantasy owners shouldn't worry about his status during a quick turnaround for Week 12 as the Patriots face the Jets in Week 12. Welker posted six receptions for 66 yards during the teams' previous meeting this season.
News: New England wide receiver Wes Welker (ankle) alleviated concerns about his playing status after he was ruled active for Week 11 against Indianapolis. Welker, who was listed as questionable on the team's injury report, received a positive report about his ankle while he tested it out during pregame warmups. He had missed two practices last week before returning to full status on Friday.
Analysis: Welker turned in a strong performance during his last outing against the Colts and will attempt to repeat that performance Sunday. He registered 11 catches for 110 yards during last year's meeting as he hauled in every pass thrown in his direction. The Colts are also permitting an average of 26.4 Fantasy points per game to opposing receivers, and Fantasy owners should keep rolling with Welker in all formats for Week 11.
News: Despite not practicing until Friday last week, Patriots wide receiver Wes Welker (ankle) is still expected to play during Week 11 against the Colts, the Boston Globe reports. Welker, who is listed as questionable on the team's injury report, will test his ailing ankle during pregame warmups. However, New England feels confident about his status as he has been dealing with the issue for most of the season and not missed any time.
Analysis: Welker, who ranks third in the NFL with 66 receptions, created some concern last week when he missed two straight practices, but was able to return to full status on Friday. The veteran wideout turned in a strong performance during his last outing against the Colts. He registered 11 catches for 110 yards during last year's meeting as he hauled in every pass thrown in his direction. The Colts are also permitting an average of 26.4 Fantasy points per game to opposing receivers, and Fantasy owners should keep rolling with Welker in all formats for Week 11.
News: Patriots wide receiver Wes Welker returned to practice Friday after sitting out the previous two days with an ankle injury, the Boston Herald reports. Welker has been dealing with the issue for most of the season, but has not missed any playing time while ranking third in the NFL with 66 receptions. He was officially listed as questionable on the team's injury report for Week 11 against Indianapolis. "It felt good," said Welker, who added he didn't believe he was limited Friday. "It's nice to get out there, get some reps, and hopefully get ready for the game." The Colts are allowing 230.2 passing yards per game this season, and receivers have rolled up 200-plus yards against them in three of their past four games.
Analysis: Welker caused a slight stir Thursday when he missed his second straight practice, but was appeared to return to the field like normal Friday. "I don't know if anybody is 100 percent at this point in the season," he said. "I don't know where I'm at. I'm just looking forward to getting better and trying to contribute on Sunday." The veteran wideout, who has tallied at least six catches in each of the past seven games, turned in a strong performance during his last outing against Indianapolis. He registered 11 catches for 110 yards during last year's meeting as he hauled in every pass thrown in his direction. The Colts are also permitting an average of 26.4 Fantasy points per game to opposing receivers, and Fantasy owners should keep rolling with Welker in all formats for Week 11.
News: Multiple sources report Patriots wide receiver Wes Welker (ankle) was absent from practice for a second straight day Thursday. According to the Boston Herald, Welker participated in a walk-through before practice. New England hosts Indianapolis Week 11.
Analysis: Welker has been on the injury report with an ankle injury for a few weeks, but he has yet to miss this much practice time or a game, so now we are a little concerned. The Patriots could be just resting him during the week, but since they hardly divulge any injury information, then it's a complete guessing game. Remember, tight end Aaron Hernandez practiced all last week before being ruled inactive with an ankle injury, so the Patriots are certainly unpredictable. If Welker plays Sunday, then he is a viable Fantasy start. Have a healthier alternative available in case Welker is sidelined.
News: Patriots wide receiver Wes Welker did not practice Wednesday to rest an ankle injury. New England hosts Indianapolis Week 11.
Analysis: Welker has been on the injury report for several weeks with an ankle injury, but he is usually listed as limited in practice. There is no need to sound the alarm yet. Welker is a veteran player that could be just getting a rest Wednesday. If he continues to miss practice, then it will be time to show concern. As of now, plan to start Welker in Fantasy Week 11.
News: New England wide receiver Wes Welker was nursing an ankle issue for most of the Week 10 win over Buffalo Sunday. That said, Welker still managed to lead the Patriots in receiving. Welker led in both yards and catches despite dropping a wide-open touchdown pass from Tom Brady. Welker did not score in the game but did make six receptions for 74 yards on 11 targets.
Analysis: Welker has been a bit underwhelming in Fantasy play over the last three games and that is because he hasn't caught a touchdown in any of those contests. In fact, Welker has just two touchdown catches all year. Of course, he did have four-straight 100-yard games from Week 3 through Week 6 and should get back close to that realm Week 11 against Indianapolis. Welker can be active in all Fantasy formats against the Colts.
News: New England wideout Wes Welker is active and starting for quarterback Tom Brady in the Week 10 game against Buffalo. Welker continued to nurse an ankle injury during the practice week and was listed as questionable on the official injury report. That said, Welker was expected to play against a Buffalo team surrendering an average of 248.4 passing yards per game, which ranks 24th in the league. Welker has racked up 397 yards on 31 receptions for two touchdowns in his last three meetings against the Bills.
Analysis: Welker has been banged up for his entire career and continues to go out and put up solid production for Brady week in and week out. Week 10 should be much of the same against a terrible Buffalo defense. The Bills are allowing an average of of 24.8 Fantasy points per game to opposing wideouts thus far and Welker has had plenty of success in his recent meetings against the division foe. Fantasy owners should view him as a viable start in all formats for Week 10.
News: Patriots wide receiver Wes Welker was limited in practice for the third straight day Friday as he continues to nurse an ankle injury. Welker is being considered questionable for New England's Week 10 matchup against the Bills, but he is expected to play. Buffalo has surrendered an average of 248.4 passing yards per game, which ranks 24th in the league. Welker has racked up 397 yards on 31 receptions for two touchdowns in his last three meetings against the Bills.
Analysis: Welker was injured on one of the final plays of New England's win over the Rams in London but it is still bothering him a bit. However, there is no indication from the team suggesting that he won't be able to play this week. Welker had a four-game stretch of 100-plus yards per game, but has since racked up 114 yards combined in his previous two games. However, the Bills are allowing an average of of 24.8 Fantasy points per game to opposing wideouts thus far and Welker has had plenty of success in his recent meetings against the division foe. Fantasy owners should view him as a viable start in all formats heading into Week 10.
News: Patriots wide receiver Wes Welker is looking to get back on track against the Bills at home in Week 10. Welker, who had six catches for 48 yards his last time out against the Rams in Week 8, will face a Buffalo defense that has allowed 248.4 passing yards per game, which ranks 24th in the league. He has racked up 397 yards on 31 receptions for two touchdowns in his last three meetings against the Bills. Welker was a limited participant in practice on Wednesday with an ankle injury but is expected to play on Sunday.
Analysis: Welker suffered the injury on one of the finals play of the game against the Rams in Week 8 and because of the bye, he's had a full week to recover. Welker had a four-game stretch of 100-plus yards per game, but has since racked up 114 yards combined in his previous two games. He has had a rich history against the Bills and could be primed for a bounce-back performance. Opposing wide receivers have scored an average of 24.8 Fantasy points per game against the Bills this season. Fantasy owners should view him as a viable start in all formats heading into Week 10.
News: Patriots wide receiver Wes Welker suffered an ankle injury in the fourth quarter Week 8 at St. Louis (London). Welker was injured on his final catch of the game -- a 10-yard reception in the fourth quarter. After the game, Welker said his foot got caught in the turf and doesn't think his injury is anything concerning, but he is scheduled for tests Monday, according to ESPN. Welker finished with six catches for 48 yards, with his longest reception going 11 yards.
Analysis: Welker was seen on the sidelines getting his ankle re-taped and was then smiling on the bench, so it doesn't appear he is dealing with a major injury. He also didn't express any concern after the game. Perhaps he is a bit lucky the Patriots are on a bye Week 9. He has plenty of time to rest up for Week 10 vs. Buffalo. Welker will likely be on the injury report leading up to that game, but as long as he is active, then he will be a viable Fantasy start. He had nine catches for 129 yards in Week 4 against the Bills.
News: Patriots wide receiver Wes Welker (ankle) is active Week 8 at St. Louis (London) despite being questionable on the injury report. Wide receivers average 154.6 receiving yards and 19.3 Fantasy points per week against St. Louis. Wide receivers also have five touchdowns against St. Louis, with three coming last week from Green Bay receivers.
Analysis: The last time Welker was in London in 2009, he totaled 10 catches for 107 yards and one touchdown against the Bucs. Fantasy owners would love a similar stat line this time around. Tight end Aaron Hernandez (ankle) is sidelined, so that could mean more targets for Welker, who remains a viable Fantasy play in all formats.
News: Patriots wide receiver Wes Welker was limited in practice all week leading up to Sunday’s game against the Rams with an ankle injury. He is listed as questionable for Week 8, but is not expected to miss any time. This is a minor issue that has been following for a few weeks. Welker brought in six catches for 66 yards in Week 7 despite the injury.
Analysis: Can any of you remember Welker's Week 1 performance? Probably not because it is a distant memory, but if you recall many folks were hitting the panic button after Welker managed just 14 yards in the opener and was beginning to lose playing time to Julian Edelman. Since then, Welker has managed four 100-yard receiving games and has been held under 90 yards just once in his last six games. He remains a viable Fantasy start in all formats Week 8.
News: Patriots wide receiver Wes Welker has fond memories of playing in London's Wembley Stadium. Welker was with the Patriots for their 35-7 rout of the Bucs in 2009 in London, totaling 10 catches for 107 yards and one touchdown. Welker makes the return trip across the pond this year to square off against the Rams in Week 8. Wide receivers average 154.6 receiving yards and 19.3 Fantasy points per week against St. Louis. Wide receivers also have five touchdowns against St. Louis, with three coming last week from Green Bay receivers.
Analysis: Can any of you remember Welker's Week 1 performance? Probably not because it is a distant memory, but if you recall many folks were hitting the panic button after Welker managed just 14 yards in the opener and was beginning to lose playing time to Julian Edelman. Since then, Welker has managed four 100-yard receiving games and has been held under 90 yards just once in his last six games. Welker benefited from injuries to Aaron Hernandez and Edelman during that stretch, but even with both players back, Welker still has a prominent role on offense. He remains a viable Fantasy start in all formats Week 8.
News: New England wide receiver Wes Welker finished with six receptions for 66 yards during the Patriots' 29-26 overtime victory over the Jets in Week 7. Welker, whose yardage total was his lowest since the season opener at Tennessee (14), entered the game with at least 100 yards receiving in each of his last four games. He also claimed just eight targets from quarterback Tom Brady -- his fewest total also since Week 1.
Analysis: Welker was one of several Patriots receivers who were limited by New York's solid secondary as tight end Rob Gronkowski was the only player to exceed 70 yards. In addition to his string of 100-yard outings being halted, he failed to reach the end zone for the first time in three games. Welker should be able to find more space to roam over the middle during the Patriots' matchup at St. Louis in Week 8 and should continue to be viewed as a high-end Fantasy option in all formats.
News: New England wide receiver Wes Welker is active for Week 7 against the Jets after he was limited in practice over the past week with an ankle issue. He was listed as questionable on the injury report, but was not expected to miss any playing time. Welker will be facing a Jets defense that has allowed 209.3 passing yards a week and has not permitted an opposing receiver to top the century mark through six games this season.
Analysis: After a puzzling start to the season -- for his standards -- Welker has regained his standout form and is aiming for his fifth consecutive game with 100-plus receiving yards. Plus, he is on the brink of history as one more outing with at least 10 catches will vault him into a tie with Jerry Rice for most career games with 10-plus receptions (17 games). New York is surrendering an average of only 15.6 Fantasy points per game to opposing wideouts this season, but Welker did surpass 100 yards in one of his two meetings against the Jets last year. Keep him rolling as a must-start option in all Fantasy formats.
News: New England wide receiver Wes Welker (ankle) was a limited participant in practice throughout the past week and listed as questionable on the injury report for Week 7 against the Jets. Welker was also bothered by the minor issue last week, but remained active against Seattle and finished with 10 receptions for 138 yards, including a stellar 102 yards in the first half alone. He will be facing a Jets defense that has allowed 209.3 passing yards a week and has not permitted an opposing receiver to top the century mark through six games this season.
Analysis: After a puzzling start to the season -- for his standards -- Welker has regained his standout form and is aiming for his fifth consecutive game with 100-plus receiving yards. Plus, he is on the brink of history as one more outing with at least 10 catches will vault him into a tie with Jerry Rice for most career games with 10-plus receptions (17 games). New York is surrendering an average of only 15.6 Fantasy points per game to opposing wideouts this season, but Welker did surpass 100 yards in one of his two meetings against the Jets last year. Keep him rolling as a must-start option in all Fantasy formats.
News: After recording his first touchdown of the season his last time out, Patriots wide receiver Wes Welker added to that total in Week 6 against the Seahawks. He got behind the secondary in the first quarter and quarterback Tom Brady hooked up with him on a 46-yard scoring strike. Welker would finish with seven catches for 102 yards in the first half, giving him his fourth straight game with 100-plus yard receiving. He slowed down a bit in the second half but still finished with 138 yards on 10 grabs with the score in the 24-23 loss. Welker was targeted a team-high 14 times and led New England in receiving. Welker, who also returned four punts for 68 yards, tied Jerry Rice with his 15th game with 10 receptions and 100-yards receiving for the most in NFL history.
Analysis: Welker sat out a few plays after a big hit from defensive back Brandon Browner in the first half Sunday but was able to return and finished with some solid numbers. After a slow start to the season, he is proving to owners that he is still one of the main threats in the passing game for New England and looks well on his way to posting 100 catches for the fifth time in the last five seasons. With the Jets up next on the schedule, continue to roll with the 31-year-old in all Fantasy leagues, especially PPR formats. In two games against New York a year ago, Welker caught 11 passes for 170 yards.
News: Patriots wide receiver Wes Welker caught seven passes for 102 yards and a touchdown in the first half of Week 6 against the Seahawks. It gave him four straight games with over 100 yards receiving. Welker scored his second touchdown of the season in the first quarter when quarterback Tom Brady hooked up with him on a 46-yard scoring strike. Welker sat out a few plays after a big hit from defensive back Brandon Browner but was able to return.
Analysis: Welker has showed no signs of the ankle injury that limited him to practice leading up to Sunday as he is already having a productive afternoon. He has really turned things on in recent weeks after a slow start to the season and has a whole other half to add to his stats. Owners that started the 31-year-old are glad they did as he remains a solid option in Fantasy.
News: New England wide receiver Wes Welker has been ruled active for Week 6 against Seattle. He was limited in practice the week leading up to Sunday due to an ankle injury. The Seahawks rank fifth in the league in pass defense, giving up 192 yards per contest, and have allowed an average of 16.6 Fantasy points per week to wide receivers.
Analysis: Welker has really turned things on in recent weeks after a slow start to the season as he has posted over 100 yards receiving each of the last three games. It looks as though he should be fine Sunday and even though the Seahawks have been tough against the pass thus far, Welker remains a solid option in the majority of Fantasy formats. Keep him active in all formats for Week 6.
News: Patriots wide receiver Wes Welker (ankle) was limited in practice for the third consecutive day Friday as the team makes its final preparations for Week 6 at Seattle. He is listed as questionable for Sunday's game. Welker has posted over 100 yards receiving in each of the last three games and will be looking to extend that streak in Week 6 at Seattle. The Seahawks rank fifth in the league in pass defense, giving up 192 yards per contest, and have allowed an average of 16.6 Fantasy points per week to wide receivers.
Analysis: It doesn't seem like Welker will sit this one out, even though he i listed as questionable for Sunday's contest. Welker is averaging 108 receiving yards in his last four games against the NFC and has really picked up his production of late after a slow start to the season. He is leading the Patriots in both receptions (38) and receiving yards (484) and while he has just one touchdown thus far, the 31-year-old is proving once again to be a solid option in Fantasy. Despite the tough matchup in the Seahawks, keep Welker active in the majority of Fantasy formats for Week 6.
News: Patriots wide receiver Wes Welker was added to the injury report Wednesday with an ankle injury. He told ESPN "everything is good" despite being limited in practice. Welker has posted over 100 yards receiving in each of the last three games and will be looking to extend that streak in Week 6 at Seattle. The Seahawks rank fifth in the league in pass defense, giving up 192 yards per contest, and have allowed an average of 16.6 Fantasy points per week to wide receivers.
Analysis: It sounds as though even if Welker appears as questionable on the injury report, he isn't expected to sit out Week 6. Perhaps the bigger storyline is the expected return of tight end Aaron Hernandez and what that means to Welker's role on offense. Welker is averaging 108 receiving yards in his last four games against the NFC and has really picked up his production of late after a slow start to the season. He is leading the Patriots in both receptions (38) and receiving yards (484). Unfortunately, he has just one touchdown. The Seahawks are a tough matchup, but Welker has been playing so well as of late, you have to consider him a viable Fantasy start in all formats.
News: New England wide receiver Wes Welker has posted over 100 yards receiving in each of the last three games and will be looking to extend that streak in Week 6 against Seattle. The Seahawks rank fifth in the league in pass defense, giving up 192 yards per contest, and have allowed an average of 16.6 Fantasy points to opposing wideouts.
Analysis: Welker is averaging 108 receiving yards in his last four games against the NFC and has really picked up his production of late after a slow start to the season. He is leading the Patriots in both receptions (38) and receiving yards (484) and while he has just one touchdown thus far, the 31-year-old is proving once again to be a solid option in Fantasy. Despite the tough matchup in the Seahawks, keep Welker active in the majority of Fantasy formats for Week 6.
News: Patriots wide receiver Wes Welker did something against the Broncos in Week 5 that he hadn't been able to to all season -- find the end zone. He hauled in an 8-yard scoring strike from quarterback Tom Brady in the first quarter and finished with a season-high 13 catches for 104 yards in the 31-21 win. Welker was targeted a team-high 15 times in the contest and averaged 8 yards per grab. It was the third straight game Welker went over 100 yards receiving. "There were a few times where I didn't get open," he said, "but for the most part I feel like I got open a lot and was able to make some plays."
Analysis: After a couple of slow performances to begin the season, Welker is proving to owners that he is still a major part of the offense as he has 30 catches for 375 yards over the last three games. He has increased his catches each game thus far and should be able to find the end zone more often going forward. The 31-year-old continues to be a solid option in PPR formats and his prowess for 100-yard performances can be helping out owners in all Fantasy leagues. With the Seahawks up next on the schedule, continue to roll with Welker as a must-start Fantasy wideout.
News: Patriots wide receiver Wes Welker has gone over the century mark each of the last two games and will look to keep things going in Week 5 against the Broncos. Denver ranks 13th in the league in pass defense, giving up under 221 yards per game, and has allowed an average of 21 Fantasy points to opposing wideouts. In two games against the Broncos last season, Welker caught 10 passes for 96 yards and a touchdown.
Analysis: After a quiet Week 1, Welker has come alive over the last three games and is showing owners that he is still a huge part of the passing game in New England. He will be aiming for his third straight contest with at least eight receptions and 100 yards Sunday, and has a good chance of extending that streak. The matchup between the Patriots and Broncos could end up being a shootout so keep Welker active in the majority of Fantasy formats for Week 5.
News: Patriots wide receiver Wes Welker caught nine passes for 129 yards in Sunday's 52-28 victory over the Bills. Welker was targeted 11 times, but did not score a touchdown.
Analysis: Remember when everyone was worried about Welker's Week 1 three reception, 14 yard performance? Welker now has 271 yards on 17 receptions over the last two games. He's back to being Tom Brady's favorite toy, although he has yet to score a touchdown this season (he had four after four weeks in 2011). Owned in 100 percent of our leagues, Welker is a must-start in Week 5 against the Broncos.
News: Patriots wideout Wes Welker capped off two weeks of buildup against the Ravens in Week 3, exploding for 142 receiving yards on eight receptions. This was following a week in which he gained 85 yards on five receptions. Welker erased most of the concern he caused in Week 1 when he had just 14 yards on three receptions. Welker is now averaging 83.7 yards per game through the air, just ahead of the 79.3 mark he has posted in five previous seasons with the Patriots. He has 906 yards on 84 catches against his Week 4 opponent, the Bills, in 16 career games, though he has just two touchdowns.
Analysis: Welker, the sixth wideout taken in drafts, has some muted point totals because he's still waiting for his first touchdown of the season (at this point last year, he had one; by Week 4 of 2011, he had three). Welker's performance couldn't have come against a better team, though, as he had struggled in his career against the Ravens (119 yards on 16 receptions over three games). While he isn't known for gaudy touchdown totals -- his career high is nine -- Welker is a force in PPR leagues, with four seasons of 100 or more receptions in the last five years. With Aaron Hernandez out, Welker's role in the offense will likely expand. An elite receiver in any format, Welker should be started in all leagues.
News: It took a few weeks of disappointing production, but Patriots wide receiver Wes Welker was back to performing at a very high level in Week 3 against the Ravens. Welker finished second on the team with eight catches on 10 targets, but he managed to lead the team in receiving yards, with 142, more than doubling his total from the first two games of the season. Welker’s first catch went for 59 yards in the first quarter, and he just kept building from there, though he was held out of the end zone for the third game in a row, as the Patriots fell, 31-30.
Analysis: Just like that, Welker is averaging 83.7 yards per game through the air, just ahead of the 79.3 mark he has posted in five previous seasons with the Patriots. There was plenty of consternation through after a few disappointing games, but Fantasy owners had to know that Welker would get going eventually. The concerns about his contract and future status may linger through the season, but we expect Welker to be the productive receiver we have come to know from here on out. Welker has plenty of experience against his Week 4 opponent, Buffalo, and most of it has been good; he has 906 yards on 84 catches against them in 16 games, though he has just two touchdowns. Buffalo has allowed six touchdowns through the air this season, so Welker should be considered a high-end Fantasy option for the upcoming matchup.
News: Patriots wide receiver Wes Welker has not quite lived up to expectations through two weeks this season, posting just eight catches for 109 yards in the first two games of the season. Hopefully he can build on a solid five-catch, 95-yard performance in Week 2, as he gets set to take on the Ravens Sunday night. Welker told CBSSports.com Tuesday that he is not injured, and has found himself surprised about his smaller role so far this season. “Yeah, I mean, a little bit. Yeah," he said. "We just continue to grind away and get ready for the weekend and prepare as if we are going to be going, and I did end up playing quite a bit in the game.”
Analysis: The biggest positive for Welker right now seems to be that the Patriots might have no choice but to look his way this week, after Aaron Hernandez suffered a serious ankle injury in Week 2. That seemed to be the catalyst for Welker's re-emergence int he offense in Week 2, so hopefully that keeps up moving forward. Welker has not had much success against the Ravens in his career, bringing in 16 catches for just 119 yards in three games, but the Patriots might have to look his way often. The Ravens rank 17th in the league with 21 Fantasy points per game allowed to opposing wide receivers, so keep him active in all formats for Week 3 in Baltimore and hope he continues to return to form.
News: The Boston Globe reports Patriots quarterback Tom Brady once again came to the defense of veteran receiver Wes Welker, who was on the sidelines Sunday against the Cardinals until tight end Aaron Hernandez went down with an injury. Julian Edelman started in his place in the Patriots' "12" personnel scheme (one receiver, two tight ends, two receivers). "It was just a personnel grouping where he's not in the game. We have a lot of different personnel groupings with him in the game. There's a lot of guys on the roster and we're trying to utilize every player," Brady said during his weekly appearance on WEEI. "Hopefully everyone can contribute and have opportunity and be fresh and stay healthy. Because we need everybody; it's a long year."
Analysis: Although he didn't start the game, Welker came up big once Hernandez (ankle) left the game. Welker finished with five catches for 95 yards. How much Hernandez's absence had to do with Welker's resurgence is anybody's guess, but because Hernandez figures to miss a few weeks with his injury, you should feel confident starting Welker in all Fantasy leagues for Week 3 at Baltimore.
News: One week after disappointing with three catches for 14 yards, Patriots wide receiver was out of the lineup for the team's first three plays Week 2 against the Cardinals. But that's exactly when tight end Aaron Hernandez left with an ankle injury. From that point forward, Welker was once again a fixture in the lineup and in the passing game, leading the team with 95 yards on five catches. His 11 targets were second-most on the team, behind Brandon Lloyd's 13. "You know, you want to be out there, I think as a competitor and everything else, especially on Sundays, it's what we play for and what we work for and you want to be out there," Welker said, adding that he's willing to do whatever the coach thinks is best for the team. "I'm just there to help out however I can."
Analysis: Welker's return to prominence was obviously a welcome sight for his Fantasy owners, but it's worth noting that his role in this game seemed to be a little different than we're used to. His first two catches were both downfield -- a 25-yarder and 36-yarder, respectively -- with Brandon Lloyd handling most of the underneath stuff. Eventually, the tides turned, though, and Welker went back to being the guy catching the high-percentage passes. That role started for him the first time Josh McDaniels was the Patriots offensive coordinator, so chances are it'll continue now that McDaniels is back. How much Hernandez's absence had to do with Welker's resurgence is anybody's guess, but because Hernandez figures to miss a few weeks with his injury, you should feel confident starting Welker in all Fantasy leagues for Week 3 at Baltimore.
News: It was Patriots quarterback Tom Brady's turn Wednesday to talk about the controversy surrounding wide receiver Wes Welker's role in Week 1 against the Titans. "Look, it's Week 1. We got a lot of football left to play," Brady said, per the Boston Globe. "Every week is a little bit different. So there's different opportunities on different weeks for different players." Brady added that the Patriots need to take advantage of their opportunities to keep Welker fresh. "He's a huge part of this offense and what we do on a weekly basis. So, you know, there's not going to be too many games where he doesn't get a lot of opportunities." Week 2 against the Cardinals might not be one of those games where he gets more, though, given the team's struggles against the run last year. The Cardinals secondary had no trouble against rookie Russell Wilson and the visiting Seahawks in Week 1, limiting them to 139 yards through the air. But of course, Brady and the hosting Patriots are a completely different story.
Analysis: Offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels cited the game plan last week as the reason why Welker was targeted just five times and also saw a slight reduction in offensive snaps. He said the Patriots will continue to be flexible with their weekly game plans, which obviously doesn't quell Fantasy owners' worries about Welker. Obviously, the Patriots brought in Brandon Lloyd this offseason and still lean heavily on tight ends Rob Gronkowski and Aaron Hernandez. But Welker has been a security blanket for Brady for years and by Brady's comments Wednesday, he hasn't forgotten about the veteran receiver. It was a tough Week 1 for Welker, but don't get down on him just yet. He remains a viable Fantasy play in all formats heading into Week 2 against the Cardinals.
News: Patriots offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels weighed in Tuesday on the controversy surrounding wide receiver Wes Welker's role on offense. Welker was targeted just five times Week 1 against the Titans and his offensive snaps were also reduced. ”I think the game plan each week is really different,” McDaniels said, per the Boston Herald. ”We definitely had some personnel groupings. I don’t know the exact number of snaps, but we played quite a few snaps of three tight ends in the game at the same time, and then we played some two tight ends, with two running backs in the game at the same time. Certainly Wes had some opportunities in the game, and made the most of a few of those. Then we had some other opportunities we didn’t quite hit. But no, Wes’ role, it’s the same as we’ve always gone. We’ll go each week and try to do what’s best to help us win. Sometimes that may include playing more multiple tight ends, sometimes it may be playing a lot more receivers."
Analysis: McDaniels did nothing Tuesday to calm Fantasy owners' concerns about Welker. In fact, he might have only heightened them since he indicated the game plan will change on a week-to-week basis. We have all seen what has happened in New England. The Patriots brought in Brandon Lloyd this offseason, and they continue to rely heavily on tight ends Rob Gronkowski and Aaron Hernandez in the passing game. But Welker has been a security blanket for quarterback Tom Brady for years, and he could be the benefactor if opposing teams choose to increase their coverages to make sure Gronkowski and Hernandez are accounted for. It was a tough Week 1 for Welker, but don't get down on him just yet. He remains a viable Fantasy play in all formats heading into Week 2 against the Cardinals.
News: Patriots receiver Wes Welker did not have the 2012 season debut he was hoping for in Week 1 at the Titans. Welker finished with three catches for 14 yards on just five targets. He saw the fewest targets of New England's main receiving options from quarterback Tom Brady behind Brandon Lloyd (eight targets), Aaron Hernandez (seven) and Rob Gronkowski (six).
Analysis: Welker should rebound in Week 2 against the Cardinals, but this was not a promising start for Welker entering a new system, albeit a familiar one, with offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels, and the addition of Lloyd. We expect Welker to play much better against Arizona, and he remains a quality starting option, especially in PPR leagues. We just hope Brady will look in Welker's direction a few more times in Week 2.
News: Patriots receiver Wes Welker had a career year in 2011 with a league-high 122 receptions for 1,569 yards and a career-best nine touchdowns. He is hoping for a repeat performance in 2012, starting with the season opener in Week 1 at Tennessee. Welker is facing a Titans defense that allowed just 12 touchdowns to opposing receivers last year and was fourth-best in Fantasy points allowed to opposing receivers. Welker last faced the Titans in 2009 when he had 10 catches for 150 yards and two touchdowns.
Analysis: Welker should start this season off on the right foot, and we consider him a must-start option in all leagues. He has a great history in season openers with 28 catches for 317 yards and four touchdowns in his past three Week 1 outings.
News: New England wide receiver Wes Welker did not suit up to play in the preseason finale Wednesday against the Giants. Welker will be ready to hit the field Week 1 at Tennessee on Sept. 9, however. Welker, as he's previously stated, still feels he has a lot to prove entering this season coming off a career year when he had a league-high 122 receptions for 1,569 yards and a career-best nine touchdowns.
Analysis: Welker signed a franchise tender in May and didn't get the long-term contract he was looking for, but instead of griping he's out to prove he deserves more. Welker continues to be among the most highly sought after wide receivers in Fantasy as he's coming off the board routinely as the sixth wide receiver chosen somewhere around Greg Jennings and Roddy White. Welker should be considered a top-flight option heading into Week 1 as he's posted 100-plus catches in four of the last five years. Welker remains a high-end Fantasy option worthy of being selected in all drafts by Round 3, with a solid bump in PPR formats.
News: Coming off one of the finest seasons of his career, when he had a league-high 122 receptions for 1,569 yards and a career-best nine touchdowns, New England wide receiver Wes Welker is eager to prove himself once again. Welker was hoping to sign a long-term contract with the Patriots and was resigned to signing his franchise tender in May. "There's no year where you don't need to prove it. It's like any other year," he said. "The contract and everything else is out of my mind. It's really just going out there and focusing on playing good ball."
Analysis: Welker said he doesn't harbor any negative emotions about his contract status and will play out his one-year deal without any resentment. "Everyone tried. I tried, they tried, and it just didn't work out," he said. "It's in the past and we're moved onto this season, which we expect to be a good one." Welker has posted 100-plus catches in four of the past five seasons and should remain one of quarterback Tom Brady's most reliable targets despite the addition of several receivers, including Brandon Lloyd. Welker remains a high-end Fantasy option worthy of being selected in all drafts by Round 3, with a solid bump in PPR formats.
News: As expected, the Patriots and receiver Wes Welker did not agree to terms on a contract extension. That means he will play 2012 under the one-year, $9.5 million guaranteed deal he signed earlier this offseason and be eligible for free agency again next spring. Welker caught 122 passes for a career-best 1,569 yards and career-high nine touchdowns in 2011. The Boston Globe believes Welker's career in New England could end if he has a big 2012 and commands a large salary next offseason.
Analysis: Welker should be in line to post excellent stats again in what amounts to his second straight contract year. Even with the addition of Brandon Lloyd and the maturation of tight ends Rob Gronkowski and Aaron Hernandez, Welker has a unique role in the Patriot offense and remains a candidate for 100-plus receptions. He's a nice No. 1 receiver worth a pick in Round 3 in standard drafts and Round 2 in PPR drafts.
News: With the clocking ticking on franchise-tagged players getting long-term contracts, The Sports Xchange believes Wes Welker will not get more than the franchise-tender deal he has signed with the Patriots. That means he would play 2012 under the one-year, $9.5 million guaranteed deal he signed earlier this offseason and be eligible for free agency again next spring. Comcast Sportsnet called the contract talks "non-existent."
Analysis: So long as Welker is in New England working with old pal Tom Brady, we're confident he'll be good for Fantasy. Welker is in line for another 100-catch season, making him an easy candidate for a No. 1 receiver worth a pick in Round 3 in standard drafts and Round 2 in PPR drafts.
News: CBS Sports NFL Insider Jason La Canfora reports that a source with knowledge of the situation says wide receiver Wes Welker is "50/50" to get a contract extension before the July 16 deadline. It's been reported that Welker and the Patriots are several million dollars apart in guaranteed money.
Analysis: While Welker's contract situation might go in a number of directions, we're reasonably comfortable saying the receiver will be effective no matter what. Players who sign with the Patriots for a boatload of dough typically don't take their foot off the gas, and the Patriots are good judges of talent; they won't extend Welker if they don't think he'll be useful. Welker is in line for another 100-catch season, making him an easy candidate for a No. 1 receiver worth a pick in Round 3 in standard drafts and Round 2 in PPR drafts.
News: After it was reported that the Patriots and Wes Welker were working on a contract extension, the Boston Herald reported no deal is imminent. Something could happen before the July 16 deadline for franchised players, but for now it seems like Welker will play in 2012 under the one-year franchise tag. There has been a sense that the Patriots have been reluctant to extend Welker because he's 31 years old and could take up cap space that would be needed in future years for other players including Aaron Hernandez.
Analysis: While Welker's contract situation might go in a number of directions, we're reasonably comfortable saying the receiver will be effective no matter what. Players who sign with the Patriots for a boatload of dough typically don't take their foot off the gas, and the Patriots are good judges of talent; they won't extend Welker if they don't think he'll be useful. Welker is in line for another 100-catch season, making him an easy candidate for a No. 1 receiver worth a pick in Round 3 in standard drafts and Round 2 in PPR drafts.
News: A league source tells the Boston Globe that the Patriots and reps for Wes Welker are working this week to extend the receiver's contract. Welker was franchise tagged this offseason and has yet to sign the one-year tender. There has been a sense that the Patriots have been reluctant to extend Welker because he's 31 years old and could take up cap space that would be needed in future years for other players including Aaron Hernandez.
Analysis: While Welker's contract situation might go in a number of directions, we're reasonably comfortable saying the receiver will be effective no matter what. Players who sign with the Patriots for a boatload of dough typically don't take their foot off the gas, and the Patriots are good judges of talent; they won't extend Welker if they don't think he'll be useful. Welker is in line for another 100-catch season, making him an easy candidate for a No. 1 receiver worth a pick in Round 3 in standard drafts and Round 2 in PPR drafts.
News: CBS Sports NFL Insider Jason La Canfora reports that the odds of Patriots receiver Wes Welker signing a new contract are "weak." Writes La Canfora: "I don't sense any real motivation to get this extended. The Patriots seem perfectly fine with the talented, but older, receiver playing out the (franchise) tag. While Welker, clearly, would like a little more money and security from a longer deal, I don't see it happening now after all this time. He loves being a Patriot and playing with Tom Brady, and the sides could always work out a new deal down the line, and in the meantime he gets roughly $10 million." Sources with knowledge of this negotiation have believed for months that Welker would end up playing 2012 on the tag, and that became even more clear when he signed it and joined offseason work a while back.
Analysis: Welker signed his franchise tag, which will pay him a guaranteed $9.515 million for the coming season. We hope Welker can work something out with the Patriots on a long-term deal, so continue to monitor what develops. He will be with the Patriots this year, and he should continue to play at a high level. Consider him a No. 1 Fantasy option in all leagues.
News: Patriots receiver Wes Welker said he doesn't "really expect anything" when asked about the looming July 16 deadline to extend a franchise player. "I expect for me to go out there and do my job to the best of my ability," Welker said. "I'm not worried about that all. Right now, I'm here and I'm happy. I'm just here to help our team win here in 2012."
Analysis: Welker signed his franchise tag, which will pay him a guaranteed $9.515 million for the coming season. We hope Welker can work something out with the Patriots on a long-term deal, so continue to monitor what develops. He will be with the Patriots this year, and he should continue to play at a high level. Consider him a No. 1 Fantasy option in all leagues.
News: Patriots quarterback Tom Brady said on WEEI-AM that he hopes wide receiver Wes Welker, who wants a contract extension, remains a Patriot for the rest of his career. Welker signed his one-year franchise tender in late May, guaranteeing him $9.5 million this season but making him a free agent after the year ends. "I wish there was an easy answer," Brady said. "I always support Wes but none of those decisions are up to me. These things end up working themselves out at some point. We're all in this business, and it's a tough business and you always hope for the best. I don't know what's going to happen. I certainly love Wes, I'd love to have him here for as long as I’m playing."
Analysis: Welker played big last season, catching 122 passes for a career-best 1,569 yards and career-high nine touchdowns in 2011. Welker will be 31 years old by the time the season starts, but so long as he remains in the Patriots’ offense he has to be considered a top-notch Fantasy option. Consider taking him by the third round in standard formats (Round 2 in PPR).
News: The Boston Globe and Boston Herald report that receiver Wes Welker may have done himself a disservice in contract negotiations with the Patriots on Thursday when he spoke publicly about the progress - or lack thereof - in recent talks. “There have been talks, but nothing that’s brightened anything at all," Welker said. “It’s actually gotten worse." Welker explained that “worse" means the Patriots’ offer is now less than the two-year, fully guaranteed $16 million the team proposed during the 2011 regular season. Welker’s agents came to Foxborough earlier this week in an attempt to move negotiations along, but things apparently did not go well. Shortly thereafter, Welker signed his franchise tag, calling it a “leap of faith," and then aired his frustrations Thursday. According to a team source, Welker’s decision to go public in recent weeks about negotiations has not gone over well with the Patriots. His words have only increased the chances that 2012 will be his final season with the team.
Analysis: Welker signed his franchise tag, which will pay him a guaranteed $9.515 million for the coming season. We hope Welker can work something out with the Patriots on a long-term deal, so continue to monitor what develops. He will be with the Patriots this year, and he should continue to play at a high level. Consider him a No. 1 Fantasy option in all leagues.
News: According to a league source, wide receiver Wes Welker has signed his franchise tender. That means he'll play out the 2012 season under a one-year deal guaranteed at $9.5 million. Welker wants a long-term contract extension and hopes his signing is a show of good faith leads to one.
Analysis: Welker played big in his contract year, catching 122 passes for a career-best 1,569 yards and career-high nine touchdowns in 2011. And now that he's signed, sealed and delivered, he will report to camp on-time and be a part of everything the Pats do between now and then. Welker will be 31 years old by the time the season starts, but so long as he remains in the Patriots’ offense he has to be considered a top-notch Fantasy option. Consider taking him by the third round in standard formats (Round 2 in PPR).
News: Patriots receiver Wes Welker went on the radio station WEEI on Monday and said that he doesn't expect to miss any regular season games. Welker is looking for a long-term contract and doesn't like being tagged with the one-year offer for $9.5 million. He already has missed the start of offseason workouts with the team and might sit out part of training camp. But Welker said he'll be there when it counts for sure. "There's $9.5 million reasons why I won't miss any regular season games," Welker said.
Analysis: We're not worried about Welker missing too much time in the offseason, but we hope he gets his contract situation settled soon. When healthy and active, Welker is a No. 1 Fantasy option, and he should be drafted in Round 3 in standard leagues and Round 2 in PPR formats.
News: When the Patriots open their mandatory minicamp in June, franchised wide receiver Wes Welker says he won't be there. Welker is looking for a long-term contract and doesn't like being tagged with the one-year offer for $9.5 million. He already has missed the start of offseason workouts with the team. "I'm thinking I'm probably not going to, but things could change," Welker told ESPN. "It's really not a route I thought I'd ever take, because it's not me. I feel like it's just kind of been the spot I've been put in."
Analysis: Welker played big in his contract year, catching 122 passes for a career-best 1,569 yards and career-high nine touchdowns in 2011. Don't confuse this with not showing up for training camp -- Welker's absence in the spring isn't vital to his success in 2012. We still expect Welker to remain with New England -- he's been entrenched in the Patriots system for years and understands his role. Welker will be 31 years old by the time the season starts, but as long as he remains in the Patriots’ offense he has to be considered a top-notch Fantasy option. Consider taking him by the third round in standard formats (Round 2 in PPR).
News: ESPN reports that Patriots receiver Wes Welker did not show up for Monday's voluntary team workout as expected. Welker wants a long-term deal and does not want to play on the $9.5 million franchise tender in 2012.
Analysis: We expect the Patriots and Welker to work out a contract prior to training camp, and it would be a surprise if Welker was a holdout leading up to the start of the season. Welker played big in his contract year, catching 122 passes for a career-best 1,569 yards and career-high nine touchdowns in 2011. As long as he shows up on time he should be considered a No. 1 Fantasy option in all leagues. Plan on drafting him as early as Round 3 in standard leagues and in Round 2 in PPR formats.
News: Comcast SportsNet reports that Wes Welker and the Patriots remain deadlocked on a contract extension. Welker wants a long-term deal and does not want to play on the $9.5 million franchise tender in 2012. His only opportunity to express his dissatisfaction might be to not show up to the club's offseason workouts, which has been an annual ritual for him since coming to New England. The Patriots have until July 15 to work out a new deal with Welker; after that he can only play on the one-year tender.
Analysis: Welker played big in his contract year, catching 122 passes for a career-best 1,569 yards and career-high nine touchdowns in 2011. And even though he's been a consummate team player for the Patriots, he could still not show up. Don't confuse this with not showing up for training camp -- Welker's absence in the spring isn't vital to his success in 2012. We still expect Welker to remain with New England -- he's been entrenched in the Patriots system for years and understands his role on the team and how the team operates. Welker will be 31 years old by the time the season starts, but as long as he remains in the Patriots’ offense he has to be considered a top-notch Fantasy option. Consider taking him by the third round in all Fantasy drafts.
News: Franchised wide receiver Wes Welker told the Boston Herald that he might not attend the Patriots' offseason workout program when it kicks off in a couple of weeks. Welker wants a long-term deal and does not want to play on the franchise tender in 2012. His only opportunity to express his dissatisfaction might be to not show up to the workouts, which has been an annual ritual for him since coming to New England. No progress has been made on a long-term deal. "I'm not quite sure yet," Welker said on whether or not he'll attend. "We'll have to wait and see how things go. To tell you the truth, I haven't made up my mind yet."
Analysis: Welker played big in his contract year, catching 122 passes for a career-best 1,569 yards and career-high nine touchdowns in 2011. And even though he's been a consummate team player for the Patriots, he could still not show up. Don't confuse this with not showing up for training camp -- Welker's absence in the spring isn't vital to his success in 2012. We still expect Welker to remain with New England -- he's been entrenched in the Patriots system for years and understands his role on the team and how the team operates. Welker will be 31 years old by the time the season starts, but as long as he remains in the Patriots’ offense he has to be considered a top-notch Fantasy option. Consider taking him by the third round in all Fantasy drafts.
News:Wes Welker has received the franchise tag by the Patriots, meaning that he'll more than likely stay with the team. Welker's franchise tender is for a one-year deal guaranteed at roughly $9.6 million; if another team were to sign him they would have to give the Patriots two first-round picks as compensation if the Patriots opt to not match the offer. Welker played big in his contract year, catching 122 passes for a career-best 1,569 yards and career-high nine touchdowns in 2011.
Analysis: There have been reports that Welker might hold out if tagged, so it remains to be seen if he'll stay away or be a team player. There's a lot of time between now and camp and something could be worked out. We fully expect Welker to remain with New England -- he's been entrenched in the Patriots system for years and understands his role on the team and how the team operates. Welker will be 31 years old by the time the season starts, however as long as he remains in the Patriots’ offense he has to be considered a top-notch Fantasy option. Consider taking him by the third round in all Fantasy drafts.
News: The Patriots will put the franchise tag on wide receiver Wes Welker if they cannot agree to a new deal with him, reports ESPN. Welker played big in his contract year, catching 122 passes for a career-best 1,569 yards and career-high nine touchdowns in 2011.
Analysis: There have been reports that Welker might hold out if given the tag, though there's a lot of time between now and camp and something could be worked out. We fully expect Welker to remain with New England -- he's been entrenched in the Patriots system for years and understands his role on the team and how the team operates. Welker will be 31 years old by the time the season starts, however as long as he remains in the Patriots’ offense he has to be considered a top-notch Fantasy option. Consider taking him by the third round in all Fantasy drafts.
News:Wes Welker is expected to get the franchise tag from the Patriots before the start of free agency, according to the Boston Globe. The report adds that things could turn ugly between Welker and the team including a holdout potentially going as long as possible. Welker played big in his contract year, catching 122 passes for a career-best 1,569 yards and career-high nine touchdowns in 2011.
Analysis: We'd be shocked if Welker wasn't signed up in time for training camp -- he's been entrenched in the Patriots system for years and understands his role on the team and how the team operates. Welker will be 31 years old by the time the season starts, however as long as he remains in the Patriots’ offense he has to be considered a top-notch Fantasy option. Consider taking him by the third round in all Fantasy drafts.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker continued his underwhelming postseason in the Super Bowl as he had just 60 yards receiving on seven catches against the Giants. He would have had more had he caught a fly pattern late in the fourth that might have helped clinch the win for the Pats, but he dropped it, which is a rarity for him. After the game, the free-agent-to-be lamented over the drop but quarterback Tom Brady stood up for him. "Wes was running down the field and it looked like they messed the coverage up a little bit and I threw it to him," Brady said. "[Welker] went up to try and make it, as he always does, and we just couldn't connect. He's a hell of a player. I'll keep throwing the ball to him for as long as I possibly can. He's a phenomenal player and teammate and I love that guy."
Analysis: This was the third-straight game in which Welker failed to top 70 yards but was his best game yardage-wise of the postseason (he scored on the Broncos). Welker had only six regular-season games under 70 yards, so it's not the norm for him. He has led the NFL in catches three times in five years in New England. While his contract is up in the offseason, NFL Network has reported that the Patriots plan to extend him long-term, and will put the franchise tag on him for next season if a long-term contract cannot be agreed to. Welker will be 31 years old by the time the season starts, however as long as he remains in the Patriots’ offense he has to be considered a top-notch Fantasy option. Consider taking him by the third round in all Fantasy drafts.
News: Patriots wide receiver Wes Welker had an OK performance in the AFC Championship game win over the Ravens Sunday. Welker helped lead his team to the Super Bowl with six catches for 53 yards with Tom Brady throwing the passes. Welker was targeted eight times by Brady in the game. He did not score.
Analysis: Welker has had a pretty consistent postseason with 12 catches for 108 yards and a touchdown. He hasn't done anything big yet, though. That could come in the Super Bowl. He remains a must-start in Fantasy playoff leagues. After that, Welker will decide on his future, and we expect him to remain in New England. Consider Welker a No. 1 Fantasy WR in all leagues if he remains with the Patriots as expected. He should be drafted in Round 2 or 3 in all formats.
News:Wes Welker is officially questionable for Sunday's playoff game vs. Baltimore after practicing on a limited basis all week with a knee issue. He should be fine. Also, the Boston Herald reports that Patriots owner Robert Kraft said he expects Welker, an impending free agent, to remain in New England in 2012 and beyond. "I think Wes wants to be here, we want him here," Kraft said.
Analysis: Welker and the Patriots still have the chance for two more games this season against Baltimore in the AFC Championship Game and possibly the Super Bowl. After that, Welker will decide on his future, and we expect him to remain in New England. Consider Welker a No. 1 Fantasy WR in all leagues if he remains with the Patriots as expected. He should be drafted in Round 2 or 3 in all formats.
News: The Patriots limited WR Wes Welker in practice on Wednesday as the team prepared for their AFC title showdown vs. Baltimore. Welker's been dealing with a knee issue for a few weeks but hasn't missed a game because of it. He caught six passes for 55 yards and a touchdown last week against the Broncos.
Analysis: Welker is expected to be just fine and be able to play in the Pats' next game. Given that he's the most targeted player on the Patriots, Fantasy owners should expect him to be valuable in Playoff Fantasy formats. He'll also be considered a reliable No. 1 Fantasy WR in 2012 worth a pick starting around 20th overall.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker played through a nagging knee issue on Saturday against the Broncos and performed well. He was targeted seven times by Tom Brady, catching six passes for 55 yards and a touchdown. The Patriots won the game, 45-10, advancing to the AFC title game.
Analysis: Welker will likely be limited in practice during the week to make sure he's well rested for next weekend. Welker is one of Brady's top targets, although his quarterback does spread the ball around to all his options. Fantasy owners should keep him active in playoff Fantasy leagues and view him as a viable No. 1 WR option in 2012.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker was active for Saturday's contest with the Broncos. He's been dealing with a knee issue for a few weeks, but hasn't missed a game because of it yet.
Analysis: Welker is going to be limited during practice so he's able to go come game day. He's Tom Brady's go-to man and will get plenty of looks, which is why Fantasy owners should keep him active in playoff Fantasy leagues. He'll also be considered a reliable No. 1 Fantasy WR in 2012.
News:Wes Welker completed a week's worth of practice on a limited basis on Friday and has been listed as questionable for the Patriots' playoff game vs. Denver on Saturday. Welker's been dealing with a knee issue for a few weeks but hasn't missed a game because of it.
Analysis: Welker is expected to be just fine and able to play vs. the Broncos. Given that he's the most targeted player on the Patriots, Fantasy owners should expect him to be valuable in Playoff Fantasy formats. He'll also be considered a reliable No. 1 Fantasy WR in 2012.
News: The Patriots rested WR Wes Welker on Wednesday as the team practiced during their bye week. They'll host the lowest-seeded AFC team in the second round of the playoffs next weekend. Welker's been dealing with a knee issue for a few weeks but hasn't missed a game because of it.
Analysis: Welker is expected to be just fine and able to play in the Pats' next game at home. Given that he's the most targeted player on the Patriots, Fantasy owners should expect him to be valuable in Playoff Fantasy formats. He'll also be considered a reliable No. 1 Fantasy WR in 2012.
News: Coming off a 138-yard game, Patriots WR Wes Welker took a back seat in Week 17 to tight ends Rob Gronkowski and Aaron Hernandez, who combined for 15 catches for 246 yards against the Bills. Welker tied for the team lead in targets with 11, but he had a relatively tame six catches for 51 yards in the contest. The six catches did give him 122 on the season, though, making him only the second player in NFL history with two 120-catch seasons in his career. Former Viking Cris Carter is the other.
Analysis: Though Welker's season ended on a relatively quiet note, it was arguably the best of his career. He set a career high with 1,569 receiving yards and emerged as the go-to guy in a busy Patriots passing attack. Of course, TE Rob Gronkowski was studly in his own right and nearly doubled Welker's touchdown total with 17. Still, Welker's role as an underneath route runner makes him a near certainty to approach 100 catches every year. At age 30, he still has a few good years ahead of him, so expect to draft him with an early-round pick again in 2012.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker is active for Week 17 against the Bills. He was limited in practice leading up to the game by a knee injury that has bothered him for several weeks now.
Analysis: Welker has three 100-yard performances in his last five games, so the knee injury has hardly slowed his production. He remains one of the top wide receivers in Fantasy and is a must-start with the Patriots still battling for seeding.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker is listed as questionable for Week 17 against the Bills after he was limited in practice earlier in the week due to an ankle injury. He is expected to play on Sunday. The Bills rank 15th in the league in pass defense, giving up nearly 225 yards per contest, and have allowed an average of 19.2 Fantasy points to opposing wideouts.
Analysis: The Patriots most likely just took it easy on Welker during the final practice week of the regular season and there is no major threat of him missing Sunday's game. He caught 16 passes for 217 yards with two touchdowns when he faced Buffalo a year ago so owners should definitely keep him active in all Fantasy formats for Week 17.
News: Patriots receiver Wes Welker was targeted 19 times by QB Tom Brady on Saturday of Week 16 in a win over the Dolphins. With all those targets, it was no wonder that Welker absolutely went off for 12 catches and 138 yards. Welker, who did not score in the game, had a long reception of 42 yards. Welker recorded his eighth 100-yard game of the season.
Analysis: Welker rebounded against the Dolphins with a big effort after recording one of his worst Fantasy games of the season Week 15 at Denver. Welker was back to his high-scoring Fantasy self in Week 16. Heading into Week 17 against Buffalo, more big things are expected of Welker. As long as the Patriots don't rest the start WR, Welker should have a huge game and is considered a must-start Fantasy option. Welker caught 16 passes for a season-high 217 yards and two touchdowns in the Week 3 game at Buffalo.
News: New England WR Wes Welker (knee) is active for the Week 16 game against the Miami Dolphins. Welker was limited in practice throughout the past week, but was never really seriously in doubt to play the game against the Dolphins. Welker had a huge game Week 1 against Miami with eight catches for 160 yards and two touchdowns. Welker has 43 catches for 601 yards and two touchdowns in his past five career games against the Dolphins.
Analysis: Welker is coming off one of his worst games of the season with just four catches for 41 yards against the Broncos last week. The last time he was held under double digits in Fantasy points was Week 11 against Kansas City. Welker returned the next week and caught eight passes for 115 yards and two touchdowns at Philadelphia. Welker could have a similar rebound performance Week 16 against a Miami team which is allowing the 10th most Fantasy points per game to opposing wideouts. Consider Welker a must-start Fantasy WR for Week 16.
News: New England WR Wes Welker (knee) is listed as questionable on the team's injury report for Week 16 against Miami. Welker was limited in practice throughout the past week, but is expected to play versus the Dolphins. Welker had a huge game Week 1 against Miami in Week 1 with eight catches for 160 yards and two touchdowns. Welker has 43 catches for 601 yards and two touchdowns in his past five career games against the Dolphins.
Analysis: Welker is coming off one of his worst games of the season with just four catches for 41 yards against the Broncos last week. The last time he was held under double digits in Fantasy points was Week 11 against Kansas City. Welker returned the next week and caught eight passes for 115 yards and two touchdowns at Philadelphia. Welker could have a similar rebound performance Week 16 against a Miami team which is allowing the 10th most Fantasy points per game to opposing wideouts. Consider Welker a must-start Fantasy WR for Week 16.
News: New England WR Wes Welker heads into Week 16 against Miami having one of the best seasons of his career. In fact, Welker might be having his absolute best season as he already has career bests in receiving yards with 1,380 and touchdown catches with nine in 2011. Welker will be meeting the Dolphins for the second time this season. He had a huge game Week 1 against them with eight catches for 160 yards and two touchdowns. Welker has 43 catches for 601 yards and two touchdowns in his last five career games against the Dolphins.
Analysis: Welker is coming off one of his worst games of the season with just four catches for 41 yards against the Broncos last week. The last time he was held under double digits in Fantasy points was Week 11 against Kansas City. Welker returned the next week and caught eight passes for 115 yards and two touchdowns at Philadelphia. Welker could have a similar rebound performance Week 16 against a Miami team allowing the 10th-most Fantasy points per game to opposing WRs. Consider Welker a must-start No. 1 Fantasy WR for Week 16.
News: After posting 311 yards receiving with three touchdowns over his last three games, Patriots WR Wes Welker did not have the same kind of success in Week 15 against the Broncos. He was held to four catches for 41 yards in the 41-23 win. He had a long reception of 19 and averaged 10.3 yards per grab. Welker was targeted six times by QB Tom Brady in the victory.
Analysis: For the career campaign that Welker has put together, he has laid his fair share of duds thus far and was disappointing on Sunday. He has been held to fewer than 50 yards receiving five times but, conversely, also has five performances of 120-plus yards. With the way the Patriots love to spread the ball around, sometimes there is not enough production for everyone but the 30-year-old should be able to get back on track next week against the Dolphins. He caught eight passes for 160 yards with two touchdowns when he faced Miami earlier in the year so continue to roll with Welker as a must-start Fantasy WR for Week 16.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker has been ruled active for Week 15 against the Broncos. He was limited in practice leading up to Sunday due to a knee injury. Denver ranks 16th in the league in pass defense, giving up nearly 233 yards per game, and have allowed an average of 22.7 Fantasy points per week to wideouts. Welker leads the NFL in both receptions (100) and receiving yards (1,339).
Analysis: Welker set a new career mark with his ninth touchdown catch of the season his last time out and will be looking to add to that total Sunday. He is averaging 103 yards per game thus far and already has his fourth 100-catch campaign under his belt. He sits just 9 yards shy of matching his mark for receiving yards in a season, and should smash that total with three games left to play. Continue to roll with Welker as a No. 1 Fantasy WR for Week 15.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker was limited in practice all week with a knee injury, so he was listed as questionable for Week 15 at Denver. However, Welker is expected to play. Welker set a new career mark with his ninth touchdown catch of the season his last time out and will be looking to add to that total Sunday. Denver ranks 16th in the league in pass defense, giving up nearly 233 yards per game, and have allowed an average of 22.7 Fantasy points per week to wideouts. Welker leads the NFL in both receptions (100) and receiving yards (1,339).
Analysis: Welker has been dealing with this knee injury for a few weeks, but he has yet to miss a game. In fact, he was listed as probable last week. Patriots coach Bill Belichick just likes to play mind games. If Welker's status changes, then we will let you know. For now, plan to start him in all Fantasy formats. Welker is averaging 103 yards per game thus far and already has his fourth 100-catch campaign under his belt. He sits just 9 yards shy of matching his mark for receiving yards in a season, and should smash that total with three games left to play. Denver has allowed 13 scores to receivers.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker set a new career mark with his ninth touchdown catch of the season his last time out and will be looking to add to that total in Week 15 against the Broncos. Denver ranks 16th in the league in pass defense, giving up nearly 233 yards per game, and have allowed an average of 22.7 Fantasy points to opposing wideouts. Welker leads the NFL in both receptions (100) and receiving yards (1,339).
Analysis: Welker is averaging 103 yards per game thus far and already has his fourth 100-catch campaign under his belt. He sits just 9 yards shy of matching his mark for receiving yards in a season, and should smash that total with three games left to play. Denver has allowed 13 scores to receivers thus far and will likely not be able to slow down the 30-year-old on Sunday. Continue to roll with Welker as a No. 1 Fantasy WR for Week 15.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker set a new career high for touchdown receptions in a season on Sunday of Week 14 at Washington. Welker hauled in a 24-yard touchdown pass from Tom Brady in the third quarter on Sunday and that gives him a career-high nine touchdowns on the season for the Patriots. Welker finished the Week 14 win with seven receptions for 86 yards and the TD. He was targeted 10 times in the game by Brady. Welker became the third player to record four 100-catch seasons on Sunday, joining Jerry Rice and Marvin Harrison.
Analysis: Welker continues to play at a ridiculously high level for the Patriots this season. He is up to nine touchdown catches and continues to be one of the league's best wide receivers. Welker is also one of the best Fantasy WRs around in any format. Welker next plays at Denver Week 15 and is expected to put up his same excellent production against the Broncos. Brady's throws should be soaring through the Colorado air and Welker's open arms are where most will likely land. The Broncos are in the top five in the NFL in terms of Fantasy points per game allowed to wide receivers and that bodes very well for Welker. Minnesota's Percy Harvin torched the Broncos for eight catches for 156 yards and two touchdowns Week 13 and Welker could seriously top that. Fantasy owners should keep rolling with Welker as a No. 1 Fantasy option for Week 15.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker is active for the Week 14 game at Washington on Sunday. Welker was never seriously in jeopardy of missing the game and should be close to 100 percent healthy for the contest. That said, Welker was spotted this week with a soft cast on his wrist, prompting speculation that he is dealing with more than a lingering knee injury. However, Welker squashed those concerns on Friday. “Wrist is fine,” Welker told the Boston Herald. “Um, I never wore a brace, so I’m not sure where that’s coming from. But I don’t know… whatever they think, they think. I’m just out here trying to play some ball.”
Analysis: As far as we're concerned, the wrist issue for Welker is a non-event. Fantasy owners should not worry about that. Welker needs just 96 receiving yards Week 14 at Washington to surpass his career-best 1,348 yards. Welker has been playing extremely well against NFC opponents, totaling 17 receptions for 251 yards and two touchdowns in his last two games against the NFC. Start him in all Fantasy formats.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker was spotted this week with a soft cast on his wrist, prompting speculation that he is dealing with more than a lingering knee injury. However, Welker squashed those concerns on Friday. “Wrist is fine,” Welker told the Boston Herald. “Um, I never wore a brace, so I’m not sure where that’s coming from. But I don’t know… whatever they think, they think. I’m just out here trying to play some ball.” Welker is expected to play Week 14 against the Redskins. He is officially listed as probable.
Analysis: The Patriots usually don't divulge injury information, so the fact Welker is talking is comforting. It appears his wrist situation is a non-issue, so Fantasy owners have no need to worry. Welker needs just 96 receiving yards Week 14 at Washington to surpass his career-best 1,348 yards. Welker has been playing extremely well against NFC opponents, totaling 17 receptions for 251 yards and two touchdowns in his last two games against the NFC. Start him in all Fantasy formats.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker walked through the locker room with a soft cast on his right wrist Thursday. He was listed on the injury report with a knee injury, but was not listed with a wrist injury. He did not stop to comment on Thursday. New England is preparing to face Washington in Week 14.
Analysis: The Patriots never divulge injury information, so we don't know if this is a minor or major injury Welker is dealing with. However, the fact they didn't list the wrist injury is encouraging. For now, plan to keep Welker active in all Fantasy lineups. If his status changes, then we will let you know. Welker needs just 96 receiving yards Week 14 at Washington to surpass his career-best of 1,348 yards in 2009. Welker has been playing extremely well against NFC opponents, totaling 17 receptions for 251 yards and two touchdowns in his last two games against the NFC.
News: New England WR Wes Welker, who continues to be listed on the Patriot's practice injury report with a knee issue but is no threat to miss any time, needs just 96 receiving yards Week 14 at Washington to surpass his career-best of 1,348 yards in 2009. Welker has been playing extremely well against NFC opponents and has 17 receptions for 251 yards and two touchdowns in his last two games against the NFC.
Analysis: Welker caught 11 passes for 110 yards last week against Indianapolis and that was his seventh 100-yard game this season already. In fact, Welker has back-to-back 100-yard games and two touchdowns over that span and he's looking to make it three straight against the Redskins Week 14. Washington has been one of the better teams against the pass this season, but we expect Welker to get his due. Welker has one career game played against the Redskins and that came back in 2007. Welker caught nine passes for 89 yards and a touchdown in that game. Welker is clearly a must-start Fantasy option in all formats for Week 14.
News: New England WR Wes Welker had 11 receptions for 114 yards during the Patriots' 31-24 victory over Indianapolis in Week 13. Welker posted a team-high 11 targets from QB Tom Brady as he finished with a solid average of 10.4 yards per catch. It was also his seventh 100-yard outing of the season to surpass his previous career high of six set during the 2009 campaign. He has notched double-digits in receptions twice this year.
Analysis: Welker continues to be a reliable option in New England's dynamic passing game and has gained at least 100 yards in back-to-back games three times this season. The 30-year-old also moved within seven receptions of topping 100 catches for the fourth time in his eight NFL seasons. Welker will lose looks near the end zone to TE Rob Gronkowski, but he should remain a No. 1 Fantasy WR for Week 14 at Washington.
News: New England WR Wes Welker was the first player in the NFL to gain 1,000 receiving yards. Now, he's seeking to reach 100 receptions before anyone else. Entering Week 13 against winless Indianapolis, Welker has amassed 82 catches, which is 15 more than the next leading receiver (Jimmy Graham at 67). He finished with eight receptions last week against Philadelphia -- the fifth time this season he has topped that mark.
Analysis: After registering only 86 catches last season, Welker has re-emerged as QB Tom Brady's premier target and is on pace to top 100 receptions for the fourth time in his career. He could even make a run for his career high of 123 catches set during the 2009 season. The Colts are permitting an average of 24.1 Fantasy points per game to opposing wideouts and their secondary is unlikely to keep up with the speedy Welker. Consider the 30-year-old a must-start in all Fantasy formats, especially PPR leagues.
News: After catching just two passes for 22 yards his last time out, Patriots WR Wes Welker had a solid bounce-back performance in Week 12 against the Eagles. He gained 115 yards on eight grabs with two touchdowns in the 38-20 win. His first score came in the second quarter when he got behind the secondary and was wide open for a 41-yard strike. Then in the third quarter, QB Tom Brady found him from 9 yards out for his eighth touchdown of the year -- tying his career high. Welker, who was targeted a team-high 12 times, finished second on New England in receiving behind Deion Branch (125 yards).
Analysis: Welker was able to find the end zone for the first time since Week 6 on Sunday and proved to owners once again why he is one of the better options in Fantasy. He now has six 100-yard performances on the year and has posted two touchdowns three times. While he is not the prototypical red-zone target, his ability to work underneath and run after the catch is the reason why Brady keeps throwing his way. He should be able to keep things going in Week 13 against the winless Colts so continue to roll with Welker as a must-start Fantasy WR.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker has been ruled active for Week 12 against the Eagles after dealing with a knee injury earlier in the week. Philadelphia ranks 12th in the league in pass defense, giving up over 222 yards per game, and have allowed an average of 20.6 Fantasy points to opposing wideouts. In his only meeting against the Eagles, which came in 2007, Welker caught 13 passes for 149 yards.
Analysis: Welker was limited to two catches for 22 yards a week ago and finally laid a dud after lighting it up for Fantasy owners all season long. After posting six touchdowns over the first six games, he has not been able to find the end zone since. However, he still leads the NFL in both receptions (74) and receiving yards (1,028). The Eagles have one of the more talented secondaries in the league, but have allowed 11 touchdowns to wideouts thus far, and have given up over 200 yards receiving the past two weeks. Welker should be considered a No. 2 Fantasy WR for Week 12, now that he has been ruled active.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker is dealing with a knee injury, but is listed as probable for Week 12 versus the Eagles. Philadelphia ranks 12th in the league in pass defense, giving up over 222 yards per game, and have allowed an average of 20.6 Fantasy points to opposing wideouts. In his only meeting against the Eagles, which came in 2007, Welker caught 13 passes for 149 yards.
Analysis: Welker laid his first dud of the season in Week 11 as the Chiefs did a solid job of limiting the 30-year-old. He entered that contest with a minor knee injury. After posting six touchdowns over the first six games, he has not been able to find the end zone since. However, he still leads the NFL in both receptions (74) and receiving yards (1,028). The Eagles have one of the more talented secondaries in the league, but have allowed 11 touchdowns to wideouts thus far, and have given up over 200 yards receiving the past two weeks. Welker should be considered a No. 2 Fantasy WR for Week 12.
News: After being held to just two catches for 22 yards his last time out, Patriots WR Wes Welker will be looking to get back on track in Week 12 against the Eagles. Philadelphia ranks 12th in the league in pass defense, giving up over 222 yards per game, and have allowed an average of 20.6 Fantasy points to opposing wideouts. In his only meeting against the Eagles, which came in 2007, Welker caught 13 passes for 149 yards.
Analysis: Welker laid his first dud of the season in Week 11 as the Chiefs did a solid job of limiting the 30-year-old. He entered that contest with a minor knee injury and will likely be limited in practice leading up to Sunday so keep an eye on his progress going forward. After posting six touchdowns over the first six games, he has not been able to find the end zone since but still leads the NFL in both receptions (74) and receiving yards (1,028). The Eagles have one of the more talented secondaries in the league but have allowed 11 touchdowns to wideouts thus far, and have given up over 200 yards receiving the past two weeks. He should be able to put up some better numbers on Sunday so consider Welker as a No. 2 Fantasy WR for Week 12.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker entered Week 11 against the Chiefs with a league-leading 72 receptions on the year and having caught at least five passes in every game thus far. He could not find much room in Kansas City's secondary, however, on Monday night as he finished with just two catches for 22 yards in the 34-3 win. He did not record his first catch until the fourth quarter and had a long reception of 16 yards. Welker was targeted three times by QB Tom Brady in the victory.
Analysis: Welker has his worst game of the season by far on Monday as the Chiefs used double teams to limit him all night long. He had been considered unstoppable, especially after posting 1,006 yards through the first nine games, and hopefully other teams do not figure out how to lock down the 30-year-old. Still, he has posted at least one catch in 88 straight games and remains a solid option in the passing game for the Patriots. Despite his poor showing against Kansas City, consider Welker a must-start Fantasy WR for Week 12 against the Eagles.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker has officially been ruled active for Week 11 against the Chiefs. Welker was listed on the injury report as probable with a knee injury earlier in the week. Kansas City enters the contest ranked 16th in the league in pass defense and are allowing an average of 21.7 Fantasy points per week to opposing WRs thus far.
Analysis: Welker will play on Monday night and enters the contest with 1,006 receiving yards and six touchdowns thus far. He has caught at least five passes in every game and his 72 receptions are the most in football. The Chiefs have given up 10 touchdowns to receivers, including one in each of the last two weeks, so view Welker as a No. 1 Fantasy WR for Week 11.
News: The Patriots officially listed receiver Wes Welker as probable for the Monday night game in Week 11 against Kansas City. Welker is on the injury report with a knee injury and should start against the Chiefs. Welker has 1,006 receiving yards and six touchdowns this season. This is his fourth 1,000-yard campaign. In Week 11, New England hosts Kansas City, which ranks 16th in the league in pass defense, giving up over 230 yards per game, and have allowed an average of 21.7 Fantasy points per week to wideouts.
Analysis: Welker has had rib and neck issues the past few weeks, but he has yet to miss a game. Welker has caught at least five passes in every game thus far and leads the league with 72 receptions. His six touchdowns on the year leave him two short of his career mark, which he should surpass easily with seven games left to play. The Chiefs have given up 10 touchdowns to receivers, including one in each of the last two weeks, so continue to view Welker as a No. 1 Fantasy WR for Week 11.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker was limited in practice for a second straight day Friday because of a knee injury. He is expected to play Week 11 vs. Kansas City barring a setback. “I feel all right,” Welker said. “I think everybody goes through different things through the season, and you just got to manage them and get ready the best you can.” Welker has 1,006 receiving yards and six touchdowns this season. This is his fourth 1,000-yard campaign. In Week 11, New England hosts Kansas City, which ranks 16th in the league in pass defense, giving up over 230 yards per game, and have allowed an average of 21.7 Fantasy points per week to wideouts.
Analysis: Welker has had rib and neck issues the past few weeks, but he has yet to miss a game, which is why we are confident he will suit up Monday night. Welker has caught at least five passes in every game thus far and leads the league with 72 receptions. His six touchdowns on the year leave him two short of his career mark, which he should surpass easily with seven games left to play. The Chiefs have given up 10 touchdowns to receivers, including one in each of the last two weeks, so continue to view Welker as a No. 1 Fantasy WR for Week 11.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker found himself on the injury report this week as his knee limited him in practice on Thursday. He has been bothered by rib and neck issues this year, but he has yet to miss a game for the Patriots. So far this season, Welker has 1,006 receiving yards and six touchdowns. This is his fourth 1,000-yard campaign. In Week 11, New England hosts Kansas City, which ranks 16th in the league in pass defense, giving up over 230 yards per game, and have allowed an average of 21.7 Fantasy points to opposing wideouts.
Analysis: Welker has caught at least five passes in every game thus far and leads the league with 72 receptions. His six touchdowns on the year leave him two short of his career mark, which he should surpass easily with seven games left to play. The Chiefs have given up 10 touchdowns to receivers, including one in each of the last two weeks, so continue to view Welker as a No. 1 Fantasy WR for Week 11.
News: After posting just 46 yards on six catches his last time out, Patriots WR Wes Welker will be looking to bounce back in Week 11 against the Chiefs. Kansas City ranks 16th in the league in pass defense, giving up over 230 yards per game, and have allowed an average of 21.7 Fantasy points to opposing wideouts. Welker has 1,006 receiving yards so far this season, giving him the fourth 1,000-yard campaign of his career.
Analysis: Welker has caught at least five passes in every game thus far and leads the league with 72 receptions. His six touchdowns on the year leave him two short of his career mark, which he should surpass easily with seven games left to play. The Chiefs have given up 10 touchdowns to receivers, including one in each of the last two weeks, so continue to view Welker as a No. 1 Fantasy WR for Week 11.
News:Wes Welker had the unenviable task of going up against Darrelle Revis for most of Week 10, but he did haul in six passes for 46 yards in New England's 37-16 win over the Jets. Welker came up with a key third down conversion in the third quarter but was held out of the end zone for the third straight game.
Analysis: Welker seems to have cooled off a bit of late, but New England's last three matchups have been against pretty stout pass defenses in Pittsburgh, the Giants and Jets. He remains a must-start in Week 11 when the Patriots host the reeling Chiefs on Monday Night Football in Week 11.
News: New England WR Wes Welker was active for Week 10 against New York. He's been dealing with a rib injury, but is sticking it out. In his last five games against New York, Welker has caught 40 passes for 542 yards with two touchdowns. He caught a touchdown pass the last time he played in the Meadowlands.
Analysis: Welker is having a breakout campaign for the Patriots and is on pace to set career marks in almost every category. He caught nine passes for 136 yards in Week 9 against the Giants and has racked up 960 yards with six touchdowns at the halfway point in the season. Owners should view Welker as a No. 1 WR option this weekend.
News: New England WR Wes Welker was able to practice in full on Friday and is listed as probable for Sunday nights game against New York. Welker was limited in practice earlier in the week as he's been dealing with an injury to his ribs. In his last five games against New York, Welker has caught 40 passes for 542 yards with two touchdowns. He caught a touchdown pass the last time he played in the Meadowlands.
Analysis: Welker is having a breakout campaign for the Patriots and is on pace to set career marks in almost every category. He caught nine passes for 136 yards in Week 9 against the Giants and has racked up 960 yards with six touchdowns at the halfway point in the season. Fantasy owners should keep tabs on him, but all signs point to him playing in Week 10. Owners should view Welker as a No. 1 WR option this weekend.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker was limited in practice for the second straight day on Thursday as he prepared for Week 10 against the Jets. He has been dealing with a new injury to his ribs but is expected to play on Sunday. In his last five games against New York, Welker has caught 40 passes for 542 yards with two touchdowns. He caught a touchdown pass the last time he played in the Meadowlands.
Analysis: Welker is having a breakout campaign for the Patriots and is on pace to set career marks in almost every category. He caught nine passes for 136 yards in Week 9 against the Giants and has racked up 960 yards with six touchdowns thus far. This injury does not appear to be serious but keep an eye on his status going forward just to be safe. As long as he is able to play against the Jets, who ranks seventh in the league in pass defense, consider Welker as a No. 1 Fantasy WR.
News: Patriots receiver Wes Welker was limited in practice on Wednesday with a new ribs injury. Welker should still be able to suit up and play Week 10 in New York against the Jets, but it is not certain when or where he suffered the injury. Welker caught nine passes for 136 yards Week 9 against the Giants. In his last five games against the Jets, Welker has caught 40 passes for 542 yards with two touchdowns. He caught a touchdown pass the last time he played in the Meadowlands.
Analysis: Welker's injury is new, but not considered serious at this point. Playing in New York against the Jets, Welker's facing the top defense at limiting Fantasy production from opposing wide receivers. That said, if Tom Brady gets the ball to anyone consistently, it will be Welker. Welker has a great history against the Jets' defense and he should continue to be considered a No. 1 Fantasy WR for the Week 10 game.
News: After totaling just 84 yards receiving over his last two games, Patriots WR Wes Welker had a solid bounce-back performance in Week 9 against the Giants. He caught nine passes for 136 yards in the 24-20 loss. He was targeted 10 times by QB Tom Brady in the contest and led New England in both receptions and yards. Welker, who also carried the ball once for 13 yards, had a long reception of 28 and averaged 15.1 yards per catch.
Analysis: Welker was held out of the end zone for the second straight game on Sunday but he put up his most yardage since Week 4. He continues to be the main man for Brady in New England and has perfected the slot role in the passing game. He has posted at least 100 yards receiving in all but three games so far this season and is on pace for career marks in almost every category. With the Jets up next on the schedule, continue to view Welker as a must-start Fantasy WR. When he faced New York earlier in the year, Welker caught five passes for 124 yards.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker has been ruled active for Week 9 against the Giants. He missed practice earlier in the week due to a neck injury. New York ranks 13th in the league against the pass, giving up over 225 yards per game, and have allowed an average of 23.7 Fantasy points to opposing wideouts.
Analysis: Welker's production has taken a slight dip recently and he's amassed just 84 receiving yards in his past two games. However, Welker remains a star in Fantasy PPR formats and collected six catches in each of his past two games despite the low yardage totals. Since he is active, consider Welker a solid No. 1 Fantasy WR for Week 9.
News: New England WR Wes Welker said the neck injury that forced him to miss practice on Wednesday won't affect his play during Week 9 against the Giants. "You're going to have your bumps and bruises," said Welker, who has topped 50 receptions in six consecutive seasons. "Some things take an extra day, and some take longer, some take less. You just have to monitor it and move on." He is officially listed as questionable on the injury report.
Analysis: Welker's production has taken a slight dip recently and he's amassed just 84 receiving yards in his past two games. However, Welker remains a star in Fantasy PPR formats and collected six catches in each of his past two games despite the low yardage totals. New York is permitting an average of 23.7 Fantasy points per game to opposing wideouts and the defense has been burned for four passing touchdowns in its last three games. Consider Welker a solid No. 1 Fantasy WR for Week 9 if he's able to play.
News: New England WR Wes Welker (neck) returned to practice Thursday in advance of the team's Week 9 matchup against the Giants. Welker, who leads the NFL with 57 receptions, sat out Wednesday's session with a neck injury. He is expected to play in Sunday's game.
Analysis: Welker's production has taken a slight dip recently and he's amassed just 84 receiving yards in his past two games. He has also scored just one touchdown in that span. However, Welker remains a star in Fantasy PPR formats and collected six catches in each of his past two games despite the low yardage totals. New York is permitting an average of 23.7 Fantasy points per game to opposing wideouts and the defense has been burned for four passing touchdowns in its last three games. Consider Welker a solid No. 1 Fantasy WR for Week 9.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker did not practice Wednesday as the team prepares for Week 9 vs. N.Y. Giants because of a neck injury. New York ranks 13th in the league against the pass, giving up over 225 yards per game, and have allowed an average of 23.7 Fantasy points to opposing wideouts.
Analysis: The Patriots don't talk about injuries much and you are probably more likely to get top secret info out of the government than injury updates from Patriots coach Bill Belichick. We will have to continue to monitor Welker's status the rest of the week, but if he is up Sunday, then you are going to start him in Fantasy.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker didn't do too much in Week 8 against a tough Steelers defense. Tom Brady targeted Welker eight times on the day. He caught six passes for 39 yards and did not score a touchdown. New England would lose the game, 25-17.
Analysis: The Steelers made it very difficult for Welker to make an impact in Week 8. He's gone over 100 yards receiving in four games this season. In his last two games he's compiled just 84 yards. The Patriots host the Giants in Week 9, a team that has allowed seven passing touchdowns through seven games. Fantasy owners should view Welker as a No. 1 WR option moving forward as he is still one of Brady's favorite targets.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker has had more than 100 receiving yards in four of the six games for New England so far this season -- totaling 160, 217, 158 and 124 respectively. In Week 8, the Patriots face the Steelers a team that is tough against the pass. Pittsburgh's giving up just 171.9 passing yards per game and eight touchdowns through the air in seven games. That comes out to 13.43 Fantasy points per contest to opposing team's wide receivers.
Analysis: Since 2007, Welker averages 7.2 catcher per game, which is best in the league. So far this season he has 785 receiving yards and six touchdowns. Despite a tough matchup this Sunday, Fantasy owners should still view Welker as a No. 1 WR option. In his last game, while he only had 45 receiving yards (back in Week 6) he did score a touchdown, which is what Fantasy owners like to see.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker hauled in a 5-yard pass from Tom Brady in Week 6 against the Cowboys, and scored his sixth touchdown of the season. The Patriots had to challenge the ruling on the field for Welker to get awarded the points however, as the ref said he went out of bounds at the 1-yard line. Welker was targeted 10 times on the day, catching six passes for 45 yards. New England would win the game, 20-16.
Analysis: Welker saw his streak of games with more than 120 yards receiving come to an end, but he still found the end zone. He now leads his team with six receiving scores. He has 785 receiving yards on the year and won't be able to add to that until Week 8 against the Steelers. The Patriots are on a bye next week, so Fantasy owners should reserve Welker for now. After the bye, Welker should once again be viewed as a viable WR option in Fantasy leagues.
News: New England WR Wes Welker is looking for his fourth straight game with more than 120 receiving yards. He's gotten 217, 158 and 124 the past three weeks and will look to keep his string of great games going in Week 6 against the Cowboys. Dallas is allowing 19 Fantasy points per game to opposing team's wide receivers. Welker is on pace for 144 catches and 2,368 yards, which would both be NFL single-season records. "I don’t think you can really look at (the numbers) and not think this is a little bit crazy," he said. "But at the same time I try not to really think about it. Just try to get open and catch the ball and play for my team.”
Analysis: Welker has 740 receiving yards through the first five weeks of the year, the most through the teams first five games. There is no reason to think he won't have another solid performance in Week 6 as he continues to be Tom Brady's favorite target. Fantasy owners should keep him active as Welker is a clear-cut No. 1 WR option.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker turned in his fourth-straight 100-yard receiving game during Week 5 against the Jets. Welker, who was shadowed by Darrelle Revis for a good portion of the game, finished with five receptions for 124 yards in the 30-21 win. His longest play of the day came on the first play of the third quarter when Tom Brady hit him up the seam for a 73-yard gain, which led to a New England touchdown on the next play. Welker was targeted a total of eight times by Brady in the contest and averaged 24.8 yards per reception.
Analysis: Everyone wanted to see how Welker would match up against Revis on Sunday afternoon as the two lined up against each other. While Revis did a pretty good job limiting to a season-low five receptions, the Patriots still found away to move him around and Welker was able to have another productive afternoon. He didn't score a touchdown in the contest, but has now racked up 740 receiving yards, which is the most in NFL history after five games of the season. The Cowboys head to town in Week 6, who were ranked 15th in pass defense heading into play on Sunday. Welker continues to establish himself as an elite Fantasy option and should continue to be viewed as a No. 1 option heading into next Sunday's contest against Dallas.
News: Patriots coach Bill Belichick said the improved health of WR Wes Welker has been a big reason why he leads the league in catches and yards. Welker had ACL surgery in Feb. 2010. "He’s certainly ahead of where he was physically last year at the beginning of the season," Belichick said. "Sometimes guys get more balls than others, it just works out that way -- the pattern, the coverage. Sometimes it just happens to go that way. I don’t think it’s anything that’s been planned." Welker will be looking to register his third straight game with at least 150 receiving yards in Week 5 against the Jets. However, that won't be easy against New York's pass defense, which is ranked second best in the league through the first four weeks of the season. The Jets have only surrendered two touchdowns through the air and are allowing an average of 12.5 Fantasy points to opposing WRs, which is tied for second lowest in the NFL.
Analysis: Welker has been a Fantasy beast but looks to face his toughest test of the season on Sunday against New York. Welker racked up a combined 175 receiving yards and two touchdowns in three meetings against the Jets last season, including seven catches for 80 yards and a score the last time the teams met in the regular season. While this looks to be Welker's toughest matchup of the season to date, he has been way too productive to even consider benching. Consider him a No.1 Fantasy WR heading into Week 5.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker will be looking to register his third straight game with at least 150 receiving yards in Week 5 against the Jets. However, that won't be easy against New York's pass defense, which is ranked second best in the league through the first four weeks of the season. The Jets have only surrendered two touchdowns through the air and are allowing an average of 12.5 Fantasy points to opposing WRs thus far, which is tied for second fewest among all 32 teams.
Analysis: Welker has been a Fantasy beast but looks to face his toughest test of the season on Sunday against New York. Welker racked up a combined 175 receiving yards and two touchdowns in three meetings against the Jets last season, including seven catches for 80 yards and a score the last time the teams met in the regular season. While this looks to be Welker's toughest matchup of the season to date, he has been way too productive to even consider benching. Consider him a No.1 Fantasy WR heading into Week 5.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker continued to be a productive force in Week 4 against the Raiders. He caught nine passes for 158 yards and a touchdown in the 31-19 win. He was targeted a team-high 14 times in the game and had a long reception of 32 yards. Welker's score came in the first quarter when he caught a 15-yard touchdown strike from Tom Brady. “You know every time I go out there I expect to do well and catch balls and move the ball and try to help the offense move the ball down the field,” Welker told the Boston Globe. “That's kind of my goal no matter what. So that's kind of the place it's taken the first four games.”
Analysis: After catching 16 passes for 217 yards and two touchdowns a week ago, Welker was again a monster in Fantasy on Sunday and is on pace to set career marks in every significant category. He now has five touchdown catches on the year with 40 catches for 616 yards through the first four games. With the passing system the Patriots employ, there will be few teams that will slow down the 30-year-old as he continues to be a main target for Brady. Heading into Week 5 against the Jets, continue to view Welker as no worse than a No. 2 Fantasy WR. In two games against New York a year ago, Welker caught 13 passes for 118 yards and two touchdowns.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker enters Week 4 against the Raiders leading the NFL in both receptions (31) and receiving yards (458). Oakland enters Sunday ranked 28th in the league against the pass, giving up over 289 yards per game, and have allowed an average of 23 Fantasy points to opposing wideouts.
Analysis: Welker is on pace for some serious numbers this season and should be in line for another solid performance against the Raiders. Oakland does not have the kind of secondary that can keep up with all of the weapons in New England's passing game. QB Tom Brady looks Welker's way early and often on a weekly basis so considering his stats thus far, continue to roll with Welker as a No. 1 Fantasy WR.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker had a career day in a surprising 34-31 loss to the Bills in Week 3. Welker hauled in 16 catches for 217 yards -- both career highs. Welker's previous bests were 15 catches for 192 yards in November 2009 against the Jets. Welker also scored twice on Sunday, opening the scoring with a 14-yard catch in the first quarter and ending the scoring for New England with a 6-yard catch in the fourth quarter. It was the seventh time in his career he had two receiving touchdowns in a game. Welker also had a 19-yard rush against Buffalo.
Analysis: Welker, who was targeted 20 times Sunday, is up to 31 catches for 458 yards and four touchdowns through three games. There is no doubt he is one of Tom Brady's favorite targets, but he benefited in Week 3 from Aaron Hernandez sitting on the sidelines. Fantasy owners surely aren't going to complain. Welker continues to be a high-end Fantasy WR heading into Week 4 against the Raiders.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker heads into his Week 3 matchup with the Bills averaging 120.5 yards per game to open the 2011 season. However, his career splits against the Bills aren't as impressive. In 14 career games, Welker is average 45.6 yards per game and has no touchdowns. Overall, he has 62 catches for 638 yards.
Analysis: The Bills have had a good game plan for Welker in the past, but you aren't going to bench him in Fantasy because of that. He has gotten off to a great start here in 2011, so you will want to keep him active in all formats heading into Week 3. The Bills are allowing WRs to average 19 Fantasy points per week.
News: New England WR Wes Welker caught seven passes for 81 yards in the Patriots' 35-21 win over San Diego in Week 2 on Sunday. Welker, who averaged 11.6 yards per reception, was targeted a team-high 11 times by Tom Brady. However, he was held out of the end zone after registering two touchdowns in the season-opener against Miami.
Analysis: Welker tied Ben Coates for the New England record with catches in 63 straight regular-season games. The speedy wideout had 160 yards in Week 1 against a woeful Dolphins secondary, but his yardage output Sunday is what Fantasy owners can expect from him throughout the season. Brady continues to trust Welker for catches over the middle, and Fantasy owners should view him as a No. 2 Fantasy WR for Week 3 at Buffalo.
News: New England WR Wes Welker, fresh off a scintillating performance against Miami in Week 1, said he is cognizant of the strong secondary San Diego possesses, especially DB Bob Sanders. The two teams battle Sunday in Week 2. "You see him flying around and out there making plays, running around and doing kind of what he does," said Welker, who was held to four catches and 25 yards against San Diego last season. "We've got to make sure we stay aggressive with him and stay on top of him and try to take advantage of it in some ways."
Analysis: Welker turned in the best performance of any wide receiver in the AFC when he amassed 160 receiving yards, including a franchise-record 99-yard touchdown, against the Dolphins in Week 1. While he certainly won't break off huge yardage totals every game, he remains a solid option for several catches after hauling in at least 86 passes the past four seasons. Consider him a solid No. 2 Fantasy WR against the Chargers.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker started the 2011 campaign off right in Week 1 against the Dolphins. He caught eight passes for 160 yards with two touchdowns in the 38-24 win. He caught his first score in the third quarter when he and QB Tom Brady connected on a 2-yard pass. Then in the fourth quarter with New England backed up in their own territory, Brady hit Welker on a 99-yard scoring strike, matching the NFL record. "When I saw the coverage as we lined up, I knew there was a strong possibility I could be getting the ball," Welker said. "I just wanted to make the most of the opportunity." Welker was targeted for 12 passes in the victory.
Analysis: Welker has not a huge factor in the passing game early on Monday night but Brady started targeting him more as the game went on, and the 99-yard touchdown pass solidified his already solid performance. After catching seven touchdown passes a year ago, he should be able to approach that mark again this season with 100 receptions a 1,000 yards almost all but a given. While the Patriots have a ton of weapons in the passing game, few are more reliable than Welker so continue to view him as no worse than a No. 2 Fantasy WR -- especially in PPR formats -- heading into Week 2 against the Chargers. When Welker faced San Diego in 2010, he caught four passes for 25 yards.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker will be looking to get off to a fast start during his Week 1 matchup against the Dolphins. In seven career games against his former team, Welker has averaged 97.3 yards per contest and scored two touchdowns. Miami ranked sixth in total defense last season, allowing 209.3 yards and 22 touchdowns through the air. The Dolphins also gave up an average of 17.8 Fantasy points per contest to opposing WRs in 2010.
Analysis: Welker banged up his thumb during the preseason, but appears to be just fine as he was not listed on the Week 1 injury report. The veteran was able to make a speedy recovery from a serious knee injury last season and finished with 86 catches for 848 yards and seven touchdowns in 2010. While the 9.9 yards per reception he averaged he were a career-low, Welker will once again be a huge part of New England's offense this season. The addition of Chad Ochocinco means QB Tom Brady has another target, but Welker will still get plenty of catches in 2011. Consider him a No. 2 Fantasy option against Miami.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker warmed up before Thursday's preseason game against the Giants, but he was held out with the neck injury he sustained in the previous game at Detroit. Welker is expected to be ready for Week 1 at Miami.
Analysis: Continue to monitor Welker's status heading into the opening game against the Dolphins, but he should be fine for Week 1. Welker remains a quality No. 2 Fantasy WR heading into the season, and he should be drafted with a pick in Round 4 in standard leagues and Round 3 in PPR formats.
News: Asked if there was any reason to think WR Wes Welker (neck) wouldn't be ready for the season opener, Patriots coach Bill Belichick said, "I don't know," and added the injury reports don't have to be out until the first week of the season. Welker (neck) talked to reporters on Tuesday -- always a good sign around the Patriots -- and said he's fine. It's up to the coaching staff if he plays in Thursday's preseason finale against the Giants.
Analysis: Don't look too much into Belichick's comments. He is never forthcoming with injury news and always likes to be vague. This doesn't appear to be a serious injury, and even if Welker has to miss one game, it's not going to alter his Fantasy value. Still draft him as a No. 2 Fantasy WR in standard formats. He has a little more value in PPR formats.
News: New England WR Wes Welker has left Saturday night's preseason game at Detroit with a neck injury. It was not immediately clear when he hurt himself. The injury was announced early in the third quarter with the Patriots trailing 27-10. Welker was New England's leading receiver last season, catching 86 passes for 848 yards. He's part of a veteran group of receivers with the Patriots that also includes Deion Branch and Chad Ochocinco. Welker caught a 44-yard touchdown pass from Tom Brady in the second quarter Saturday for New England's first touchdown of the game. After the game, Welker told the Boston Herald that he should be fine. "Yeah, I'm OK," Welker said. He also had no brace or anything on for support.
Analysis: We expect Welker to be OK, but continue to monitor his status heading into the start of the regular season. Welker should be considered a No. 2 Fantasy WR when healthy, and he is worth drafting as early as Round 4 in standard leagues and Round 3 in PPR formats.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker feels good about his quickness. "I feel like I've gained a step from two years ago," he said. "This is the best I've felt in a long time, and I just want to continue to play well."
Analysis: Don't forget that Welker made a speedy recovery from a serious knee injury to make it back in time to play 15 games in 2010. Although, it seems he sacrificed a bit of his quickness just to get on the field. Welker totaled 86 catches for 848 yards and seven touchdowns. The 9.9 yards per catch were a career-low. But now that Welker seems to have regained a step, that is only good news. The addition of Chad Ochocinco means QB Tom Brady has another target, but Welker will still get plenty of catches in 2011. Draft him as a No. 2 Fantasy WR.
News: According to ESPN.com, Patriots WR Wes Welker said he has been training in Florida this offseason, but he plans to throw with QB Tom Brady soon. Welker, who last year was trying to come back from a significant knee injury, said "this is as good as I've felt since 2009." Welker was also asked about his contract, entering his final year. "Furthest thing from my mind," he says.
Analysis: We're glad that Welker is feeling good, and he should be motivated to play well in 2011 with the hope of earning a new contract. He is a solid No. 2 Fantasy WR in standard leagues, and with the potential to catch 85-plus passes from Brady, he is a standout option in PPR formats. Plan on drafting Welker as early as Round 4 in standard leagues, and he could be considered a third-round option in PPR formats.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker said he doesn't deserve a contract extension after his 2010 season. Welker finished with 86 catches for 848 yards and seven touchdowns this season, his first without 100-plus since 2006 with Miami. He did this without missing a game because of the torn ACL suffered eight months before the start of the season. "I think everybody wants a new deal, but I wouldn’t say anything I did this past year would warrant one or anything like that," Welker told the Boston Herald. "I feel like I didn’t play my best ball. And I’m sure there are a lot of factors that come into that. Having that kind of year definitely drives me. It makes me want to be better than I was. You go into an offseason thinking about what you can do to get better, and there’s plenty of things I can do to have a better year."
Analysis: We love this -- Welker is self-motivating himself for 2011 when he'll be in a contract year. Typically players in such a situation will play to the best of their abilities for a sizable pay day. Welker is already expected to be a high-catch target, but anything that can motivate him to be more than that is fantastic. We'd splurge with a fourth-round pick on Welker in PPR formats and a fifth-round pick in standard formats.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker was benched for the the Patriots' first series after making subtle remarks apparently directed at coach Rex Ryan. He entered the game on the Patriots second offensive series of the game and finished with a team-high seven receptions in the 28-21 loss to New York. Welker was targeted nine times in the defeat and finished with 57 yards receiving. He had a long of 13 yards and averaged 8.7 yards per reception.
Analysis: Coach Bill Belichick sent a clear statement to his team on Sunday by benching Welker for the New England's first offensive series. Still, Welker was fairly productive after the benching as he finished with a team-high seven receptions. However, most of those were on short underneath routes that didn't equate to a ton of yards. The Jets pass rush and five and six defensive-back sets, forced Brady into making a ton of intermediate throws. Welker finished with 86 catches for 848 yards and seven touchdowns this season, his first without 100-plus since 2006 with Miami. That said, he did get into the end zone more after coming off major knee surgery in the offseason and had to deal with more double coverage after Randy Moss was traded to Minnesota. He is still one of Brady's favorite targets and can be considered a solid receiver to go after in Fantasy drafts next season.
News: Jets LB Bart Scott said some physically threatening remarks during an interview with Newsday about Patriots wide receiver Wes Welker after Welker kept poking fun at Jets' coach Rex Ryan. "I’ll tell you what," said Scott. "Be very careful what you say about our coach. [Welker's] days in a uniform will be numbered. Put it like that." On Saturday, an NFL spokesman, Greg Aiello, confirmed the league will be investigating "comments of a physically threatening nature." They also said that "discipline" is possible. The Jets and the Patriots play in the playoffs on Sunday.
Analysis: This threat to Welker's wellbeing doesn't exactly do anything for his Fantasy value. We don't believe the Jets are going to do anything dirty and Welker's career isn't going anywhere. He had 86 catches for 848 yards with seven touchdowns this season, his first without 100-plus since 2006 with Miami. That said, he did get into the end zone more. Welker is still a solid receiver to go after in Fantasy drafts next season.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker was listed among the inactives for Week 17, as New England management decided to rest several starters.
Analysis: Welker tore his ACL in the finale last year but said earlier this week he wanted to play in Week 17. Apparently, Bill Belichick decided otherwise. Be sure to bench Welker in all formats.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker wants to play in Week 17 against Miami, despite tearing his ACL against Houston last year in the regular season finale. "I say that I’m here to play football," Welker said. "That’s what I get paid to do. I love playing. So, no matter what’s at stake or no matter what the deal is, I want to play."
Analysis: Welker didn't do much of anything last Sunday against the Bills, and might only see a half of action this Sunday, especially if the Patriots get up big early. As a result, Welker will be a risky Fantasy start for Week 17, but he could do enough damage in one half to be worth using in 12-team formats. Play him at your peril.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker had just three catches for 19 yards in a Week 16 win over Buffalo. He was targeted six times, but Welker dropped two of those targets on back-to-back plays in the second quarter.
Analysis: Welker hasn't put up great numbers against the Bills lately, and he continued that trend on Sunday as Bill Belichick wisely relied heavily on the run against the worst ground defense in the league. Also, the weather got a little sketchy late in the game, and the Patriots were up big, so the passing game wasn't really needed. In Week 17, New England hosts Miami, and after what happened to Welker in last season's finale when he blew out his knee, you have to think he might not see a full plate of snaps next week. For that reason, he will be a risky start in all leagues for Week 17.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker will take on the Bills for the second time this season when the two AFC East teams meet in Week 16 at Buffalo. Welker had four catches for 45 yards in their earlier meeting, and has been held under 50 yards in three of his last four games against the Bills, who have allowed opposing WR corps to average 19.4 Fantasy points against them this season (22nd most).
Analysis: Welker disappointed a little in Week 15, making just three grabs for 42 yards against Green Bay, but he has a good chance to top those numbers this Sunday against the Bills, who allowed Miami slot guy Davone Bess to make nine catches for 78 yards this past weekend. The only problem for Welker might be if the Patriots run all over the league's worst run defense, limiting Welker's targets. Still, the veteran has four scores in his last five games and has bounced back nicely from a mid-season slump. Start him in all formats as a low-end No. 1/high-end No. 2 Fantasy option for Week 16.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker was averaging 85 yards receiving and a touchdown in his last four games coming into the Week 15 game against the Packers, but he finished the night at a much slower pace. Welker not only failed to find the end zone, but he managed just three catches for 42 yards on Sunday night. The yardage was his fewest since Week 8. QB Tom Brady looked his way on six occasions.
Analysis: Welker was not able to get involved as much as he normally does. The reason for the lack of production at the beginning of the game was the Packers defensive strategy; they placed last season's defensive MVP Charles Woodson on him one-on-one. The matchup made its way to the slot as well, and Welker's usual underneath passes were limited, even on his signature whip-route. Still, he was able to produce when needed, including on a 35-yard strike from Brady when the team was down and needing momentum. The Pats also saw limited offensive production across the board because they only possessed the ball for 20 minutes. In Week 16, Welker will look to get back on track against the Bills. Buffalo has allowed an opposing WR to eclipse the 100-yard mark in three of the last four games. Welker should be considered a No. 1 Fantasy WR heading into that matchup.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker is playing his best football of the year in the last month. He has four touchdown grabs in his last four games and is averaging more than 85 yards receiving in that span. In Week 15, he will build on those number against the Packers on Sunday night. The recent success is not quite good enough for Welker, who wants to capitalize more in the red zone despite the Patriots currently slated as the NFL's fourth-best team inside the 20. "You just have to keep working at it -- staying mentally sharp, keep spacing good and have the mindset that we're going to score touchdowns," Welker said.
Analysis: Welker faces a defense that has not allowed an opposing WR to find the end zone in four straight games. Green Bay sports the third-best Fantasy defense against WRs, giving up just over 15 Fantasy points per game to the position. They have allowed less than 10 points to receivers in each of their last three games. Still, Welker has his passes coming from QB Tom Brady, who has thrown for multiple scores in six straight games including four to Welker -- who is two scores away from setting a new career-high for a season. Consider the slot WR to be a low-end No. 1 Fantasy option heading into the Sunday night showdown with the Packers.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker had over 100 yards receiving for the first time this season in Week 14 against the Bears. After catching six passes for 85 yards in the first half, he came back after halftime to put up 30 more yards on two grabs, finishing with 115. He was targeted a team-high 13 times by QB Tom Brady in the 36-7 win. Welker finished second on New England in receiving behind WR Deion Branch (151 yards).
Analysis: Welker was Brady's go-to guy early on in Week 14 but the Patriots did not throw the ball as much after halftime as they were up huge. Even with the horrible conditions in the game, the 29-year-old was able to find open spaces in Chicago's defense and keep New England's offense moving. Welker had his three-game touchdown streak snapped by the Bears but he has totaled 285 yards over his last three contests. The Patriots offense has been clicking on all cylinders the last few weeks and should continue to do so heading into Week 15 against the Packers. Green Bay entered Sunday ranked sixth in the league against the pass. But the way Welker has been producing lately, Fantasy owners would be crazy to bench him at this point. Continue to view Welker as no worse than a low-end No. 2 Fantasy WR heading into next week.
News: The Patriots-Bears Week 14 matchup in Chicago will be impacted by freezing temperatures, strong winds including gusts over 40 m.p.h. and several inches of snow. That could impact the Patriots' passing offense and could mean less-than-ideal numbers for Wes Welker. The receiver has been hot of late, catching 20 passes for 228 yards and four touchdowns over his last three, and with the Pats' dink-and-dunk offense which allows for lots of short, quick-hit passes that won't be affected by the wind, he could still rack up a lot of catches. However, the snow could make his yardage after the catch minimal. “There will be low visibility, probably even in the stadium,” National Weather Service meteorologist Richard Castro told the DeKalb Daily Chronicle. “There will be snow on the field, and that will be blowing around with the very strong winds. The other thing is, being right on the lakefront, that’s where we’re expecting the strongest wind gusts out of this storm.”
Analysis: You can read more on the weather at Soldier Field in Chicago here. Welker should be OK, especially in PPR leagues, because the majority of the passes he's targeted for are within 10 yards of the line of scrimmage and the ball shouldn't be affected by the winds on those passes, especially given the mustard Brady puts on his throws. It's worth mentioning the opponent in all of this -- the Bears own the league's 13th-ranked pass defense that has allowed just over 215 yards per game and have held opposing wideouts to just seven touchdowns all year. You might want to lower expectations for Welker, but he should still be at the very least an effective part of the Patriots offense and a decent No. 2 Fantasy WR for Week 14.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker enters Week 14 against the Bears having caught four touchdown passes in his last three games, including at least one in all three contests. He will face off against a Chicago defense that ranks 13th in the league against the pass, giving up over 215 passing yards per game, and have allowed an average of 17.2 Fantasy points to opposing wideouts. In one career game against the Bears, Welker has caught two passes for 14 yards and a score.
Analysis: Welker has come alive in recent weeks and is just one touchdown grab away from matching his career high. He has at least three receptions in every game this season and while he will have to make a serious push to eclipse the 1,000-yard mark, there are few wideouts in the league hotter than him right now. The Bears are on a five-game winning streak and although they have a tough defense, they can be beat through the air. Consider Welker a No. 1 Fantasy WR for Week 14.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker had more receptions than anyone on his team in Week 13 against the Jets and was able to find the end zone for the third straight game. He caught an 18-yard touchdown strike from QB Tom Brady in the third quarter and finished with seven catches for 80 yards in the 45-3 win. Welker caught every pass he was targeted for and averaged 11.4 yards per reception. He has seven touchdown grabs on the year.
Analysis: Welker has caught four touchdowns over his last three games and is just one away from matching his career-high. He continues to be to go-to guy for Brady and has helped keep the Patriots passing game going, even with WR Randy Moss gone. Welker has at least three receptions in every game this season and while he will have to make a serious push to eclipse the 1,000-yard mark, there are few wideouts in the league hotter than him right now. With the Bears and their 14th-ranked pass defense up next on the schedule, continue to view Welker as a solid option in all Fantasy formats.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker had his best performance of the year in his last outing and will look to build on that in Week 13 against the Jets. New York ranks 12th in the league against the pass, allowing over 210 yards per game, and have given up an average of 20.6 Fantasy points to opposing wideouts. When the two teams met in Week 2, Welker caught six passes for 38 yards and a touchdown.
Analysis: Welker had 90 yards receiving and two touchdowns on Thanksgiving and will face a Jets defense in Week 13 that he has had success against in the past. In 12 career games against the division foe, the 29-year-old has 54 receptions for 608 yards and two scores. While QB Tom Brady has many options to throw to, the winner of Monday night's game will take over first place in the AFC East so expect the Patriots to be ready to go. Welker has three touchdown grabs in his last two games and could add to that total in Week 13. Consider Welker a No. 2 Fantasy WR against the Jets.
News: In Week 1, Wes Welker caught eight passes for 64 yards and scored two touchdowns, and no one thought he'd do that well again. He did on Thanksgiving, catching eight passes for 90 yards and two touchdowns at Detroit. Welker rumbled into the end zone on a 5-yard play in the third quarter when he caught a Tom Brady pass and muscled his way in, then had an easier scoring on a 16-yard screen pass in the fourth quarter to help put the game away.
Analysis: It wasn't long ago when owners were writing off Welker, but he's been a huge key to the Patriots' offensive success of late. In his last three games Welker has totaled 21 catches for 237 yards with three scores. He's too important a piece of the Pats' prolific offense to keep out of Fantasy lineups going forward. Use him as at worst a No. 3 or flex receiver.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker scored last week against the Colts and has seen an uptick in targets and receptions over his last two games. Welker has averaged just over 11 yards per catch on 13 grabs in those two games, earning 147 yards with a touchdown last week. Welker saw 19 targets over the span, the most he's had in consecutive weeks all year. The Lions' secondary has been spotty, and that's putting it nicely, allowing 10 touchdowns to wide receivers on the season.
Analysis: At the rate that the Patriots have been passing, there's optimism abound on Welker for Thanksgiving Day. Consider him a borderline No. 2/No. 3 WR depending on whether or not your league rewards receptions. It would be a surprise if he didn't put up good numbers again at Detroit.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker was finally able to get back into the end zone in Week 11 against the Colts. Welker was on the receiving end of a Tom Brady 22-yard touchdown strike early in the first quarter to put New England up 7-0. He was targeted seven times in the 31-28 win, and finished with five receptions for 58 yards and a touchdown. Welker averaged 11.6 yards per reception and had a long of 22 yards.
Analysis: Welker has finally able to find the end zone after not scoring in his last seven games. He has now put together back-to-back productive games and is starting to look like the slot receiver that he was in the first four games of the season. He continues to be favorite target of Brady and should see plenty of targets when the Patriots travel to Detroit to take on the Lions on Thanksgiving. Consider Welker a low-end No. 2 Fantasy WR heading into Week 12.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker, who had a season-high 89 yards receiving last Sunday against the Steelers faces a tough matchup against Indianapolis in Week 11. One of the challenges Welker has against the Colts is potentially being matched against safeties. They are usually more physical than corners at the line and often take chances because they have help over the middle. Indianapolis ranks 10th in pass defense and has allowed an average of 19.7 receiving yards to opposing WRs on the season.
Analysis: Welker finally broke out of his post-moss funk and looked like the slot WR he was in the first four weeks of the season last week against Pittsburgh. He entered last week averaging just 35 yards receiving since the Moss was traded to the Vikings. While it was nice to see him get back on track, Welker faces a Colts' defense that has only allowed four WRs to eclipse the century mark this season. Consider him a low-end No. 3 Fantasy WR heading into Week 11.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker, for the first time since the departure of Randy Moss, was utilized the way everyone was accustomed to seeing in the Week 10 win over the Steelers. He caught eight passes for a season-high 89 yards. QB Tom Brady targeted him a team-high 12 times on the night. The Patriots came out using the short passing game -- where Welker excels -- underneath the Steelers 2-deep zone.
Analysis: Welker finally broke out of his post-moss funk and looked like the slot WR he was in the first four weeks of the season. He came into the night averaging less than 35 receiving after Moss was traded to the Vikings. This could be the turning point for Welker's season from a Fantasy perspective as it seems Brady and the Pats offense is back in their groove. In Week 11, they will try to duplicate Sunday night's effort against the Colts, who own the NFL's No. 10 defense against the pass. Welker should likely be considered a low-end No. 2 Fantasy option heading into that matchup.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker scored three touchdowns in four games with Randy Moss on the outside, but since the Patriots traded him away, Welker has not found the end zone and he is averaging just 34.5 yards per game. Perhaps in the Week 10 game against the Steelers, he can get out of the post-Moss slump. Pittsburgh ranks 24th in the NFL against the pass, but more importantly, smaller-slot WRs (like Welker) have done well against them. Davone Bess, Lance Moore and T.J. Houshmandzadeh have all scored a TD against the Steelers and they combined for 169 yards receiving in those games.
Analysis: Welker has not physically had anything negative happen to him but teams do not have to account for Moss, so he becomes the defense's focus. Welker has also seen a drop off due to the emergence of TEs Aaron Hernandez and Rob Gronkowski, who have combined for three TDs in the last three games. Still, Welker is a viable underneath receiving threat and he should be considered a No. 3 Fantasy WR in Week 10.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker remained in a slump Sunday as he caught four passes for 36 yards in a Week 9 loss at Cleveland. Welker was targeted six times and also kicked an extra point after usual kicker Stephen Gostkowski hurt his thigh.
Analysis: Welker now has 11 catches for 85 in his last three games, totals which he was putting up in one game while Randy Moss was around. It is clearly now time for Welker's Fantasy owners to start panicking, as there doesn't seem to be any reason why Welker's numbers will rebound the rest of this season. In Week 10, the Patriots visit the Steelers, and while Welker is still probably worth using in most formats, it should be as a No. 3 Fantasy WR.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker, who has just five catches for 49 over his last two contests, will try and break out of that mini funk in Week 9 against a usually-generous Browns secondary. Cleveland is allowing an average of 25.8 points to opposing wide receiver corps this season.
Analysis: Welker did reasonably well in his first game without Randy Moss back in Week 6, catching seven passes for 53 yards, but it's been all downhill since then. To be fair though, one of those games was against the solid Chargers defense. The fact that Deion Branch is banged up is also not helping Welker's cause, but this game against the porous Browns secondary could be the medicine he needs to get going. Use Welker as a No. 3 Fantasy WR for this matchup, but one with decent upside.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker was relatively quiet in Week 8 against the Vikings. Welker was targeted five times in the 28-18 win, but finished with just three receptions for 24 yards. He had a long of 12 yards and did not score in the contest.
Analysis: Welker has really seen a dip in production since the departure of Randy Moss. The Patriots do not a have a true deep threat anymore which, so teams are taking away the underneath routes, which is how Welker makes his living. Hopefully, Brandon Tate and Deion Branch will be able to help stretch the field and open things up underneath for Welker, but so far that has not been the case. Unless there are any better options floating around out there, Fantasy owners really don't have much of a choice except to roll with him. Consider Welker a low-end No. 3 Fantasy WR heading into Week 9 against the Browns.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker has managed 10 receptions and 100-plus receiving yards in two of his past three games against an NFC opponent. He looks to keep that trend going in Week 8 against the Vikings. Minnesota is allowing WRs to average 19 Fantasy points per week, which is tied for 12th lowest in the NFL. James Jones became the first WR to break 100 yards against the Vikings secondary in Week 7 and WRs have accounted for four touchdowns in the last two games against Minnesota.
Analysis: Welker has not scored a touchdown since Week 2 and hasn't gone over 100 yards this season. Maybe it has something to do with the fact he rushed back from a major knee injury. Or maybe it's just because the Patriots' passing offense is not what it used to be. Welker is still a key target for QB Tom Brady, but his numbers have been disappointing. Look to Welker as a low-end No. 3 Fantasy WR for Week 8.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker was a non-factor in Week 7 against the Chargers. Welker was targeted six times, but finished with just four receptions for 25 yards in the 23-20 victory. Welker averaged 6.3 yards per reception and had a long of just 12 yards. He did not score in the contest and has not found the end zone since Week 2 against the Jets.
Analysis: Welker was not very productive on Sunday, but then again no one on the Patriots offense really was, including Tom Brady. The Chargers, who entered Sunday ranked first in pass defense, did a good job limiting New England's passing attack and covering the underneath routes of the likes of Danny Woodhead and Welker. Many feel that the departure of Randy Moss and his constant demand of double coverage will hurt Welker's production, although the Patriots are counting on Deion Branch to ease some of that burden. While Fantasy owners' patience with Welker may be running thin, he can still be considered a No. 3 Fantasy WR heading into Week 8 against the Vikings.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker, who had seven receptions for 53 yards in Week 6 against the Ravens, will be looking for a big performance in Week 7 against the Chargers. However, the Chargers are ranked No. 1 in defending the pass and have only surrendered five touchdowns through the air this season. They have yet to give up multiple passing touchdowns in the same game and have help opposing WRs to an average of 11.33 Fantasy points per game. In three career games against the Chargers, Welker has averaged 54.7 yards receiving and has never scored a touchdown.
Analysis: Welker, who was signed by San Diego as free agent back in 2004, took a backseat to Deion Branch and Danny Woodhead on Sunday. While Branch had more targets and receptions, Woodhead was used in many short yardage situations that normally went to Welker in years past. Many feel that the departure of Randy Moss and his constant demand of double coverage will hurt Welker's production, but the Patriots are hoping Deion Branch can ease some of that burden. Welker hasn't scored a touchdown in his last three games and should be considered a low-end No. 2/ No. 3 Fantasy WR against a tough San Diego defense.
News: Though he was targeted 11 times on Sunday, Patriots WR Wes Welker was halted by the Ravens in Week 6, catching seven passes for just 53 yards. Welker saw tight coverage all game long and couldn't do much after making any of his catches except when he caught a skinny post pattern from Tom Brady in the second half for a 21-yard gain. Welker finished third on the team in receiving yards in the game.
Analysis: Welker also saw new teammate Deion Branch land one more target than he did, as well as two more catches, 45 more yards and a touchdown. Welker is still a key part of the Patriots' offense, but between Branch's arrival and the emergence of Danny Woodhead (five catches, 52 yards, seven targets of his own), he's not the only short-area guy the Pats will lean on. Furthermore, the Pats play at San Diego next week against a pass defense that's given up two TDs to wide receivers all year. Welker's chances to be great in Week 7 seem slim, so consider him no more than a low-end No. 2/top-end No. 3 Fantasy WR for the matchup.
News:Randy Moss is gone, but the Ravens' coverage on Wes Welker is expected to remain stiff when the Pats host them on Sunday. That's because the Ravens have made it a point to limit Welker. In two games against Baltimore, one in December, 2007 and one in October, 2009, Welker totaled nine catches for 66 yards and no scores. But in the interest of full disclosure, it's worth pointing out that Welker's replacement in the team's playoff game last year, Julian Edelman, scalded the Ravens for two scores while catching six passes for 44 yards. It's conceivable that Welker would have had those numbers, especially since both of those touchdowns were hard-earned on broken plays. Or maybe the Ravens didn't take Edelman as seriously as they do Welker. Only one receiver, Brandon Lloyd, has scored on the Ravens this season (twice last week). Possession-type receivers like Jordan Shipley and Eddie Royal have struggled against Baltimore this year.
Analysis: The only positive is that Welker is Brady's main receiver and he's sure to get a lot of targets with Moss no longer in the picture. If you believe that the Patriots will still be a strong passing offense, starting Welker as a No. 2 WR is fine. If you're a little more cautious, consider other receivers over Welker and don't use him as anything more than a No. 3 WR or a flex option.
News: The Patriots have traded WR Randy Moss to the Vikings on Wednesday for a third-round pick in 2011, which leaves Wes Welker as the clear-cut No. 1 target in New England's pass attack. Welker has led the Patriots in receptions each of the past three seasons, but Moss was considered the No. 1 option based on all the attention he received from opposing defenses. Now, most of that attention should go to Welker, who enters the Week 5 bye with 26 catches for 217 yards and three touchdowns.
Analysis: This trade helps Welker from the standpoint he should see an increase in targets with Moss gone, and he has 34 on the season. But Welker also will now see more attention from opposing defenses and could line up against each opponents top defensive back. We still value Welker as a low-end No. 1/high-end No. 2 Fantasy WR, but he was better off with Moss on the field with him. All those open lanes in the middle of the field won't be there as often, and Welker could struggle. New England now has two weeks to adjust its passing game with a bye in Week 5. The Patriots face Baltimore in Week 6, and the Ravens ended Week 4 as the No. 1 pass defense in the NFL. It won't be easy for Welker to post outstanding stats going forward without Moss.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker lead his team in receptions and receiving yards in Week 4 against his former team -- the Dolphins. He caught eight passes for 70 yards in the 41-14 win. On a night in which New England got three scores from their defense and special teams, Welker was targeted 10 times by QB Tom Brady, which was double the amount of any other receiver.
Analysis: Welker had his most receiving yards of the year in Week 4 but was unable to find the end zone for the second straight week against the Dolphins. He has caught three touchdown passes on the year, with the last coming against the Jets in Week 2. He remains one of the more favorable targets for Brady and appears to be all healed up from his leg injury that he suffered a year ago. The Patriots have a bye next week but continue to view Welker as a No. 1 Fantasy WR for Week 6 against the Ravens.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker was held without a touchdown for the first time in three games in Week 3 against the Bills. He looks to get back on track in Week 4 against the Dolphins. Miami has allowed opposing receivers to total 344 yards and two touchdowns in three games. Welker has 47 catches for 613 yards and two touchdowns in six career outings against Miami. In his last three games against the Dolphins, he has 27 catches for 371 yards.
Analysis: Welker always seems to get up for the Dolphins games since he started his career with Miami. Welker might not have 100-yard game yet in 2010, but the fact he is even playing football is amazing after he messed up his knee in the playoffs last season. QB Tom Brady will continue to look Welker's way on a regular basis, especially in the red zone. Welker is tied for third among receivers in the NFL with five red zone targets. Keep Welker active in all Fantasy formats for Week 4.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker caught four passes for 45 yards in a Week 3 win over the Bills. Twenty-seven of those yards came on one catch.
Analysis: The Bills focused on limiting Welker and Randy Moss on Sunday, and the plan almost worked except that Moss caught a pair of touchdowns. Welker has the odd stinker now and again, but he's one of Tom Brady's favorite targets and will remain a must-start Fantasy option heading into Week 4 when New England visits Welker's old team, the Dolphins. He has averaged 102 yards a game against Miami.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker said Thursday it will likely take him a year to fully recover from his ACL injury. He is still experiencing pain, which he insists is a normal part of the recovery process. "I am just trying to contribute in whatever way I can," said Welker, who will be seeking his first career touchdown against the Bills when the two teams meet in Week 3. In his six games against Buffalo as a member of the New England receiving corps, Welker has averaged 68.8 yards and 6.7 catches a contest.
Analysis: Buffalo was great against Fantasy WRs season, allowing the third fewest Fantasy points against, but that was mostly because teams were running all over them instead and didn't need to throw the ball to try and catch up. The Bills gave up a pair of receiving touchdowns to Green Bay last week and have actually been pretty good against the run this year, so New England will undoubtedly head to the air on Sunday. With Welker's solid success against the Bills in his career as a Patriot and the fact that Tom Brady continues to look his way plenty of times, Welker remains a must-start Fantasy WR in all formats.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker caught six passes for 38 yards and a touchdown against the Jets in Week 1. He took a scary hit to the head from S Eric Smith in the first quarter but came back and caught a 6-yard touchdown pass from QB Tom Brady for the first score of the game. Regarding the hit in the head he took from Smith, Welker said, "I was just happy we got the first down." Welker was targeted seven times in the 28-14 loss and extended his streak to 65 consecutive regular season games with at least one reception. The last game that Welker did not catch a pass was when he was with the Dolphins, on December 24, 2005.
Analysis: Welker has three touchdown receptions on the year so far after only collecting four a season ago. Fantasy owners had to be a little worried when they saw him cracked in the head but luckily it was nothing serious. Welker has looked explosive early on and looks primed for another big season. He faces a Buffalo defense in Week 3 that gave up 255 passing yards and two touchdowns on Sunday. Welker has 55 catches for 574 yards in 12 career games against Buffalo and remains a must-start Fantasy option.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker looked like his usual explosive self in Week 1 against the Bengals and was ultra-productive with eight catches for 64 yards and two touchdowns. Welker, who was injured in Week 17 against Houston last year, faces a tougher defense in the Jets in Week 2 and will likely have CB Antonio Cromartie covering him in the matchup. "I don't think there is a faster guy in the league than Cromartie," Welker said. Jets coach Rex Ryan called the 5-foot-9, 185-pound Welker "a matchup nightmare." In 11 career games against New York, the 29-year-old has totaled 48 catches for 570 yards and one touchdown.
Analysis: Welker will have a tough matchup in Week 2 but the Jets looked a little sloppy in their opener, committing numerous penalties and allowing 233 yards passing in their loss to the Ravens. Cromartie is is a rangy, fast cornerback but lacks discipline at times. Welker should be able to work underneath routes and get open in space like he historically does. He appears to be back at 100 percent and should remain a must-start Fantasy option for Week 2 against the Jets.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker's return from his knee injury was better than even he expected. Welker, who was injured in Week 17 against Houston last year, played in Week 1 against Cincinnati and had an outstanding performance. Welker led the Patriots with eight catches for 64 yards and two touchdowns. He had 11 targets in the game. "I had pretty much instilled it in my mind that I would be back," Welker said. "I still have a ways to go. ... I have this stupid knee brace I hate. I can't wait to burn it. We're getting there, slowly but surely."
Analysis: This was typical Welker, and we expect him to play well all season now that he's back at 100 percent. He has a difficult matchup in Week 2 against the Jets, but he should be able to continue making plays running underneath routes against the tough New York defense. Consider Welker a must-start Fantasy option now that it appears he's back at 100 percent.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker had quite a first half Sunday against Cincinnati in his first game following last year's knee injury in Week 17. Welker had two touchdowns to help New England jump out to a 24-3 lead.
Analysis: It appears like Welker is back after an offseason of uncertainty and should continue to play at a high level. We consider Welker a must-start since he appears to be at 100 percent.
News: Even though Patriots WR Wes Welker said recently that he doesn't feel the same in his comeback from his injured knee, Bengals coach Marvin Lewis has been impressed with how Welker has looked so far. The Bengals play at the Patriots in Week 1. "I’ve really been impressed with Wes," Lewis said. "He has worked extremely hard with his rehab. And he’s come back and shown quickness and the ability to move away from coverages and so forth. But he’s so special. ... It just shows what kind of pro he is. You’re happy to see a guy come back like that." Welker also said even though he doesn't feel like himself, he's still ready to go. "I wouldn't be out there if there was anything in the back of my head, anything I was uncomfortable with," Welker said. The last time Welker faced Cincinnati was in 2007, and he had three catches for 22 yards and one carry for 11 yards in that game. The Bengals allowed nine touchdowns to opposing wide receivers in 2009.
Analysis: Welker will likely take some time to get all the way back to his old self after injuring his knee in Week 17 last year. Still, the fact that he's able to play in Week 1 means you should keep him active, especially in leagues where receptions count. We consider Welker a No. 2 Fantasy WR against the Bengals, and he should perform better than he did in the previous meeting in 2007. We're glad Welker is back on the field for this game.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker made a brief appearance in Thursday's preseason finale against the Giants, recording one catch for 14 yards. Welker finished the preseason with five catches for 75 yards. It's quite a remarkable feat seeing how he is only seven months removed from reconstructive knee surgery. Still, Welker says he is not satisfied with his progress and isn't sure if he is the 100-catch threat of old. "I still feel like I’m a long ways off from that personally," Welker told the Boston Globe. "People say it looks the same. I don’t feel the same. So I’m not gonna put a number on myself. My deal is going out there and playing as hard as I can every single play, and just trying to do my job. Whatever it is at the end is what it is, and we’re gonna just go out and try to win games."
Analysis: While Welker doesn't seem overly confident with Week 1 around the corner, one thing that never crossed his mind -- a stint on the PUP list. "The whole PUP deal or sitting out games or whatever, that never really entered my mind," Welker said. "I just wanted to get back as early as possible, whenever that was and we’re getting closer to the season now, and hopefully we’re gonna be good to go. ... We didn’t really put a date on (the return). We discussed some different things we had to go about and different aspects came into play. For me, it was never a question. I wasn’t gonna sit out. It’s just not in me. I can’t do it." There was always some risk to drafting Welker since he made such a quick recovery from an injury that usually takes a year to recover from. But as long as he is on the field and is in a potent passing offense like New England's, then Welker is worth drafting as a No. 2 Fantasy WR.
News:Wes Welker, playing for the second straight week after major knee surgery in February, had two catches for 41 yards for the Patriots during Thursday's preseason game against the Rams. Welker's first catch didn't come until the second quarter, but it was a big one. Welker gained 39 yards on a deep pass from Tom Brady. He has four catches for 61 yards in two games.
Analysis: Welker has made quite a speedy recovery less than seven months after undergoing reconstructive knee surgery. But if the Patriots have cleared him for action, then he appears ready for the regular season. Continue to draft Welker as a No. 2 Fantasy WR. His track record, when healthy, speaks for itself.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker returned to the field for Thursday's preseason game against the Falcons less than seven months after undergoing reconstructive knee surgery. He came out with the starting offense and caught passes from Tom Brady on New England's second and third plays from scrimmage, and was roughed up by defenders on an incomplete screen pass on the fourth but hopped up to his feet afterward. He finished with two receptions for 20 yards. "Getting out there catching balls and getting hit was good," Welker said. "It's a step forward. I'm not sure I'm all there yet." He tore both the ACL and MCL in his left knee during the final game of the 2009 season.
Analysis: Welker didn't play for long on Thursday, but he looked quick and his recovery is impressive nonetheless. It will be interesting to see how the knee reacts tomorrow, which should be a good indicator of whether he's on target to be ready for Week 1. If he experiences no setbacks during the preseason, it will be safe to consider Welker a No. 2 Fantasy WR, who will once again eclipse 100 catches. He's a good third-round pick in PPR formats and a good fourth-round pick in standard leagues.
News: The Patriots held out wide receiver Wes Welker from Thursday's preseason opener against the Saints despite his strong comeback from a torn ACL in his left knee suffered in the last regular-season game. He is expected to be ready for the opener Sept. 12 at home against Cincinnati.
Analysis: Welker continues to make a phenomenal recovery from a devastating injury, and it appears like he's on target to suit up and play in Week 1. The Patriots will likely play it safe by holding him out of most if not all preseason games. If he experiences no setbacks during the preseason, it will be safe to consider him a No. 2 Fantasy WR, who will once again eclipse 100 catches.
News: Patriots coach Bill Belichick indicated Wednesday that WR Wes Welker, who is coming off last year's torn ACL in Week 17, could play in Thursday's first preseason game against the Saints. "We'll see how it goes and make a decision on that," Belichick said. "I don't know. I'm not saying he will; I'm not saying he won't. We'll evaluate it and see."
Analysis: It would be impressive to see Welker back on the field for the first preseason game. We're still being cautious with the hopes he doesn't suffer a setback, but Welker is starting to look like a quality No. 2 Fantasy WR. He's worth drafting as early as Round 5 or 6 in standard leagues and possibly a round or two earlier in leagues where receptions count.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker participated in full-contact drills Tuesday afternoon during a joint practice session with the Saints and experienced no trouble -- a major step in his recovery from an ACL injury. New Orleans cornerback Randall Gay thought both Welker and his knee looked fine. "It don't look like he hurt his knee," Gay told the Boston Globe. "To me, covering him, it looks like he's back."
Analysis: Welker continues to make a phenomenal recovery from a devastating injury, and it appears like he's on target to suit up and play in Week 1. If he experiences no setbacks during the preseason, it will be safe to consider him a No. 2 Fantasy WR, who will once again eclipse 100 catches.
News: The Boston Globe reports that Patriots WR Wes Welker took part in 11-on-11 drills Thursday for the first time during training camp in his recovery from last year's torn ACL. He even took a hit from LB Jerod Mayo. After making a catch across the middle, Mayo lowered his shoulder and hit Welker in the chest. The paper reports Welker bounced right up from the hit.
Analysis: Though he did not take his normal number of reps, it was likely a welcomed step for Welker to be back in the mix. And it was good that he got hit and didn't suffer a setback with his injured knee. All signs point to Welker being ready for Week 1 and making a full recovery, but we still advise you to use caution on Draft Day. Consider Welker a No. 3 Fantasy WR with the chance to see his value rise during the season. He's worth drafting as early as Round 6 in standard leagues and possibly a round or two earlier in leagues where receptions count.
News: Patriots receiver Wes Welker was removed from the physically unable to perform list and placed on the active roster Sunday, seven months after tearing ligaments in his knee. Welker practiced with the club Sunday morning. Welker was injured early in the final regular-season game against the Houston Texans on Jan. 3. He underwent surgery for a torn ACL and MCL a month later. Welker participated in organized team activities in June. On Sunday, he ran pass patterns and participated in non-contact drills. He was loudly applauded by fans every time he touched the ball. "It's a tribute to Wes and his work ethic," said Nick Casario, director of player personnel. Casario said Welker passed his physical before taking the field. "I'm not fully there," Welker said. "We're getting closer. I can't point out one thing. I think I can get better at a lot of things, whether I was 100 percent or not. We're working toward that." He said his knee and the shoulder he injured during the season, forcing him to miss two games, both feel great. Welker said he didn't know when he would be cleared for contact, leaving it up to coaches and doctors.
Analysis: Some Fantasy owners will be hesitant to take a chance on Welker given the fact that he's returning so quickly from a torn knee ligament, and those owners won't have the chance to get Welker on their roster. The bottom line is that someone in every league will target Welker as a No. 2 Fantasy WR with a pick between Rounds 4 and 5. That should be you -- so long as Welker remains healthy and active with minimal or no setbacks, owners should expect a big year from the reception-heavy wideout. If setbacks and limited reps in practices happen, though, then there's room to lose some optimism. But for now, he's worth that Round 4 or 5 pick simply because he appears to be ready to play 16 games. That's more than what you could have asked for when he was writhing in pain in Houston in early January.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker, who is on the PUP list, was seen running around in practice in shorts and a T-shirt during Thursday's practice. He looked good as he practiced several short crossing routes. His knee strength seems to be improving.
Analysis: Welker could be removed from the PUP list at any time, but the Patriots want to be cautious with him in his return from last year's torn ACL. Barring a setback, Welker is not expected to miss the start of the regular season. When healthy, Welker is a solid No. 2 Fantasy WR worth a pick around Round 4 or 5, but he should be considered a No. 3 Fantasy option and taken in Round 6 or later since he won't be 100 percent even if he's medically cleared to start the year.
News: While Wes Welker is currently listed on the Patriots' active/physically unable to perform list, he's not expected to stay there. The team wants to take a cautious approach with him in camp and in the preseason, according to the Boston Globe, but the plan remains for him to see some action before the games count. The paper does not believe that Welker will miss the start of the regular season.
Analysis: Between his participation in spring drills to the upbeat reports we've been hearing, signs point to Welker being a candidate to play 16 games. There's still the matter of him playing with the same trademark quickness he had before his torn ACL injury, but if he's healthy enough to prepare for the regular season chances are he'll be OK on his routes. He's looking more and more like a rock-solid No. 2 Fantasy WR, one who some owners will shy away from because of the injury. Now more than ever, he's worth a pick in Round 6 -- and it might not be long before he goes much sooner than that.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker was placed on the active/physically unable to perform list Tuesday, reports ESPN.com. The report says that Welker is eligible to come off the PUP list at any time, and this move is likely just a formality heading into the start of training camp. Welker suffered a torn ACL in Week 17 last season and has been going through rehab trying to return for the start of the season.
Analysis: This report goes against a previous report from a radio station in Boston, which suggested that Welker would not start the season on the PUP list. We expect the Patriots to be cautious with Welker in training camp since they want him on the field for the start of the season. Continue to monitor Welker's health and hopefully he can be ready for Week 1. When healthy, Welker is a solid No. 2 Fantasy WR worth a pick around Round 4 or 5, but he should be considered a No. 3 Fantasy option and taken in Round 6 or later since he won't be 100 percent even if he's medically cleared to start the year.
News: New England WR Wes Welker will reportedly not be on the PUP list when Patriots training camp opens July 29. A Boston area radio station reported Friday that while Welker still needs medical clearance to be a full participant, a source indicated that he will get that clearance in time for the start of camp.
Analysis: The report needs to be confirmed by more than just a local radio station, but this is obviously huge news if Welker is able to participate in training camp in full if he's not on the PUP list. It would also be a good indication that, barring a setback, he will be on the field for Week 1 and avoid the second PUP list, which would keep him out for the first six weeks of the season. Welker suffered a torn ACL in Week 17 of last season and has been able to work out in individual drills this offseason. If Welker is in fact a full go from the start of camp, owners should adjust their thinking on him significantly. When healthy, Welker is one of the most productive receivers in the league and could see his value rise to a No. 2 Fantasy option worth a pick around Round 6. But if his knee remains an issue throughout training camp then Welker should be considered a No. 3 option with a mid-round pick on Draft Day.
News: The Providence Journal reports that even though WR Wes Welker (knee) has looked good in individual drills for the Patriots in offseason workouts, he still has a long way to go in his recovery. He still is not competing in team work during non-contact scrimmages, but Welker is encouraged with his rehab. "It's going good so far," Welker said recently. "It's a long process, but I feel like we're making a lot of strides." But even though Welker is making strides -- he had surgery Feb. 2 but has been running at practice without a limp -- the paper reports there's still a possibility he'll miss the first six weeks of the season. The Patriots aren't going to take any chances by rushing his recovery to get him back for the first week of the season. "My plan is to keep working hard, keep doing the things I've been doing to get to where I am right now," said Welker.
Analysis: Welker still has a long way to go based on the knee injury he suffered. We'll need to see what his status is during training camp to know when he'll be ready in 2010, but be prepared for him to miss the start of the season. He should be viewed as a No. 3 Fantasy WR at best, and he's worth the risk of a mid-round pick based on his potential.
News: WR Wes Welker once again participated in practice Tuesday. He ran his routes well and left after about 30 minutes, which has been typical for him as of late. Welker is working his way back from a torn ACL and rotator cuff suffered last season (he had surgery on both less than five months ago). Patriots coach Bill Belichick said Tuesday he's pleased with Welker's progress so far in his rehab. "I think he's doing all right," Belichick said. "It's a long rehab. He's done quite a bit. He's still got a long way to go. I know he's working really hard. I'm impressed with his work ethic, as you always are with Wes. That's the way he is. He's coming along."
Analysis: Welker continues to make progress this offseason in his comeback from the knee injury, but he still has a long ways to go to return at 100 percent. We'll need to see what his status is during training camp to know when he'll be ready in 2010, but be prepared for him to miss the start of the season. He should be viewed as a No. 3 Fantasy WR at best, and he's worth the risk of a mid-round pick based on his potential.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker once again participated in individual drills for about 15 minutes Thursday before leaving the field. He was particularly impressive when he was cutting and running out routes. Welker is just four months removed from knee surgery to repair a torn ACL suffered in early January.
Analysis: Welker still has a long way to go based on the knee injury he suffered. We'll need to see what his status is during training camp to know when he'll be ready in 2010, but be prepared for him to miss the start of the season. He should be viewed as a No. 3 Fantasy WR at best, and he's worth the risk of a mid-round pick based on his potential. You might want to back him up with Pats WR Julian Edelman in the later rounds since Edelman showed in 2009 he can be a suitable replacement for Welker in New England's offense.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker, who is just four months removed from knee surgery to repair a torn ACL suffered in early January, continued to practice on Monday. Wearing a brace on his left knee, he worked for about 15-20 minutes during each organized team activity drill, and it looks like he's focusing on being comfortable with the knee while making cuts. He did not partake in team drills. Welker, who said he feels "all right," continued to be coy about his recovery, saying that he's only trying to do what he can. "I didn't think it would be that big of a deal," Welker said referring to practicing so soon after surgery. "I felt like I've been pushing it, trying to get ready and get out there with my teammates, get a few reps and try to get better."
Analysis: We've seen Welker in action of late and he looks really good for a guy whose knee was shredded in January. We're hoping there are no repercussions from him practicing so soon, and we're also hoping he's not on the PUP list come the open of training camp in early August. Until that happens and he's ready to run in team drills, we're going to be skeptical and figure him to be a candidate to miss at least the start of training camp. He is still worth drafting as a low-end No. 3 Fantasy WR based on his potential once he does return, especially in leagues where receptions count.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker is running again, just four months after knee surgery to repair a torn ACL suffered in early January. He's also on the way back from a torn rotator cuff in his shoulder. Welker participated Wednesday in the Patriots' voluntary practice for about 10 minutes, taking part in agility drills, making cuts while running patterns and catching passes while wearing a brace on his left knee. The Boston Globe watched Welker practice and reported that he "looked swift and agile during a cone drill, cutting and weaving." Welker did not take part in any full-squad parts of practice.
Analysis: Welker is seemingly closer to a return than anyone has given him credit for. Typically, an ACL tear requires around nine months or rehabilitation and recovery, but Welker is hustling to make the start of the season (or perhaps training camp). Continue to monitor Welker's recovery, but remain vigilant; we don't expect him to be ready for the start of the season and believe he could still start the season on the PUP list. He is still worth drafting as a low-end No. 3 Fantasy WR based on his potential once he does return, especially in leagues where receptions count.
News: The Boston Herald reports Patriots WR Wes Welker is making progress on his injured knee an shoulder. On top of his torn ACL, Welker also had surgery for a torn rotator cuff. "We've been rehabbing two things at once," said Welker, whose knee was the more publicized ailment. "We're making a lot of strides in both places." Welker won't take part in the upcoming OTA workouts, and he's hoping to be ready for some time in training camp. "I'll be more of the veteran type guy," Welker said, "hanging out, and rehabbing at the same time."
Analysis: Welker still has a long way to go based on the knee injury he suffered, and the shoulder injury is also worth keeping an eye on. We'll need to see what his status is during training camp to know when he'll be ready in 2010, but be prepared for him to miss the start of the season. He should be viewed as a No. 3 Fantasy WR at best, and he's worth the risk of a mid-round pick based on his potential. You might want to back him up with Pats WR Julian Edelman in the later rounds since Edelman showed in 2009 he can be a suitable replacement for Welker in New England's offense.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker says he injured two knee ligaments last season, but only one required surgery. The NFL's receptions leader said Saturday at the Wes Welker Foundation's football camp that the anterior cruciate and medial collateral ligaments in his left knee were injured during the Patriots' final regular-season game. Welker, who missed the playoffs, says the MCL didn't require surgery and "if you have that healing on its own, it almost becomes stronger." Welker still isn't certain when he'll return to the field, but says the fact he didn't need surgery on the MCL was "great news." Welker said he's doing limited rehab when it comes to position drills, but trainers have him doing work with weights and stretching bands. Patriots owner Robert Kraft said in the Boston Herald he's optimistic Welker will make a speedy recovery. "He's going to be back there. I have confidence in that," Kraft said. "I happened to see him a week-and-a-half ago. He looks great. We think everything should be fine there."
Analysis: This is good that Welker didn't need surgery on both ligaments, but he still has a long recovery ahead. We'll need to see what his status is during training camp to know when he'll be ready in 2010, but be prepared for him to miss the start of the season. He should be viewed as a No. 3 Fantasy WR at best, and he's worth the risk of a mid-round pick based on his potential. You might want to back him up with Pats WR Julian Edelman in the later rounds since Edelman showed in 2009 he can be a suitable replacement for Welker in New England's offense.
News: The Boston Globe reports Patriots WR Wes Welker said his recovery after undergoing reconstructive surgery to repair a torn ACL and MCL and having another procedure to fix a torn rotator cuff is "going well," but he doesn't know when he can return to practice. "I'm gonna return whenever I'm ready, whenever the doctors clear me," Welker said. "I'm just steadily going about my business and doing the best I can. The season's still pretty far away and we've got some time. I'm just gonna continue to work hard and do the best I can to get back on the field as soon as I can. That's just kind of my plan of action. Whenever that is, is when it is. I'm not gonna push it before it's ready. When it's ready I'm gonna be out there."
Analysis: Welker still has a long way to go based on the knee injury he suffered. We'll need to see what his status is during training camp to know when he'll be ready in 2010, but be prepared for him to miss the start of the season. He should be viewed as a No. 3 Fantasy WR at best, and he's worth the risk of a mid-round pick based on his potential. You might want to back him up with Pats WR Julian Edelman in the later rounds since Edelman showed in 2009 he can be a suitable replacement for Welker in New England's offense.
News: The Oklahoman reports Patriots WR Wes Welker, who tore his left ACL and MCL in Week 17 of last season and also had offseason shoulder surgery, is motivated by detractors saying he can't come back at the same level before the injury. "I hate hearing it, but I love hearing it," Welker said. "To me, that pushes me. That drives me." Welker, who had surgery on Feb. 3, said he knew the knee injury "was bad." He has been working every day with his knee to increase his flexibility and improve his extension. Only three months after the surgery, he is already jogging again. And Sports Illustrated reported that QB Tom Brady recently started throwing passes to Welker but wouldn't get specific about what they were doing. "I'm happy about where we are," Welker said. "Hopefully, we can just continue to have positive days and keep moving forward." Welker isn't ready to target a date for his return. "It's so early right now, it's hard to put any sort of timetable on it," he said. "My main deal is just working hard and putting myself in the best position possible to be ready whenever I'm ready. No telling when that's going to be or how long it's going to take, but all I can do is just work hard."
Analysis: It's great news that we're getting positive results on Welker, but he still has a long way to go based on the knee injury he suffered. We'll need to see what his status is during training camp to know when he'll be ready in 2010, but be prepared for him to miss the start of the season. He should be viewed as a No. 3 Fantasy WR at best, and he's worth the risk of a mid-round pick based on his potential. You might want to back him up with Pats WR Julian Edelman in the later rounds since Edelman showed in 2009 he can be a suitable replacement for Welker in New England's offense.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker has been catching passes from Tom Brady while rehabbing on the West Coast, SI.com reports. Brady told NFL writer Peter King that Welker and he have been throwing "quite often," but wouldn't get specific about what they were doing and wouldn't predict if Welker would be ready for the start of the season. Welker tore his left ACL and MCL in Week 17 of last season (Jan. 3) and also had offseason shoulder surgery. "He was an undrafted free-agent and has had to work for anything he's ever gotten," Brady said. "So don't put anything past him."
Analysis: It's a positive that Welker and Brady are doing what they can this offseason, but until we see Welker taking part in on-field workouts we can't trust him to be a top Fantasy option as he's been in the past. Owners should be prepared to be without him for the start of the season, and as such view his draft status differently. Since he might miss the start of 2010, drop him down to a Round 6 or 7 pick and back him up with Pats WR Julian Edelman in the later rounds, who we think will see playing time in place of Welker until he's healthy.
News: A league source told the Boston Herald that Wes Welker is "doing very well" three weeks after having surgery on a torn left ACL. The paper still speculates that Welker will not be ready for the start of the 2010 season citing the time it typically takes a player to recover from the injury and subsequent surgery.
Analysis: Welker finished the regular season with 123 catches for 1,348 yards and four touchdowns along with the torn ACL suffered in the team's meaningless Week 17 game at Houston. When healthy, Welker is a borderline No. 1 Fantasy WR in standard leagues and a sure-fire No. 1 choice in PPR formats. But owners should be prepared to be without him for the start of the season, and as such view his draft status differently. Since he might miss the start of 2010, drop him down to a Round 5 or 6 pick and back him up with Pats WR Julian Edelman, who we think will see playing time in place of Welker until he's healthy.
News: Patriots left tackle Matt Light said in an interview with CBSSports.com that he expects WR Wes Welker to recover at 100 percent following surgery to repair the anterior cruciate and medial collateral ligament in his left knee. Welker, who was injured in the season-finale against Houston, had surgery Feb. 2. Recovery time could be anywhere from 6-12 months. It does not appear likely that Welker will be ready to play in the 2010 season opener, although that has not been ruled out. "He's kind of going through the gauntlet right now," Light said. "You have an injury like that, and you don't know what to expect. But the guys that know Wes and the guys that have played with Wes understand that he's a gamer. He's going to do everything he can to get back out there on the field. He'll be very workmanlike in his approach doing that. As a teammate, I have no concerns as to where he's going to be. When he's ready to play he'll be back out there making plays the same way he's done his entire career. He's a guy you want to play with. He's a guy you want as a teammate, you want him in the locker room, his passion and drive for what he's done is the best of the best."
Analysis: Welker finished the regular season with 123 catches for 1,348 yards and four touchdowns. He is a solid Fantasy option in all leagues when healthy, and that's what you'll have to monitor heading into 2010. He's still worth drafting with a mid-round pick, and you can expect him to play a significant role as his health improves. Plan on drafting him as a No. 3 Fantasy WR and hope for a speedy recovery.
News: The Boston Globe reports that Patriots WR Wes Welker will have surgery for his torn knee ligaments on the Tuesday before Super Bowl XLIV in Boston. Welker suffered a torn left ACL and MCL in the Patriots' regular-season finale at Houston and will have surgery nearly one month after going down. He's expected to miss at least six months and is in jeopardy of not being in game shape in time for the start of the regular season.
Analysis: Welker is a huge part of what the Patriots do week in and week out. He finished the regular season with 123 catches for 1,348 yards and four touchdowns, but owners might pass on him early in 2010 drafts since his knee won't be in perfect shape heading into Week 1 of next season. We'll keep you posted on Welker's status all offseason long, but the current recommendation is to take him around Round 6 in all leagues and back him up with Julian Edelman in the later rounds.
News:Wes Welker's season is officially over now that he's been placed on injured reserve. The New England Patriots made the move Wednesday, three days after Welker suffered a serious left knee injury in the first quarter of their 34-27 loss at the Houston Texans. Welker led the NFL with 123 receptions, a club record. The Boston Globe reported earlier in the week that Welker has a torn left ACL and MCL, but according to a specialist familiar with the injury, his rehabilitation might not take as long as a typical ACL tear because he was hurt on a non-contact play, according to Dr. Lonnie Paulos. Although the severity of the ligament tears is not known, Paulos imagines that the MCL will be allowed to heal itself while Welker has surgery to repair the ACL. "The recovery should be very similar to what Tom [Brady]'s was," Paulos said. "I would anticipate him back getting in a timely fashion. He'll make it."
Analysis: Welker is a huge part of what the Patriots do week in and week out. Without him, their hopes of making a run at the Super Bowl take a hit. It's unlikely that he will be ready for the start of training camp this summer. Welker finished the regular season with 123 catches for 1,348 yards and four touchdowns, but owners might pass on him early in 2010 drafts since his knee won't be in perfect shape heading into Week 1 of next season. We'll keep you posted on Welker's status all offseason long.
News: The Boston Globe reports that a team source confirmed that Patriots WR Wes Welker has a torn left ACL and MCL, but according to a specialist familiar with the injury, his rehabilitation might not take as long as a typical knee ligament tear. That's because Welker was hurt on a non-contact play, according to Dr. Lonnie Paulos, who performed surgery on Carson Palmer's knee several years ago. Although the severity of the ligament tears is not known, Paulos imagines that the MCL will be allowed to heal itself while Welker has surgery to repair the ACL. "The recovery should be very similar to what Tom [Brady]'s was," Paulos said. "I would anticipate him back getting in a timely fashion. He'll make it."
Analysis: Welker is a huge part of what the Patriots do week in and week out. Without him, their hopes of making a run at the Super Bowl take a hit. It's unlikely that he will be ready for the start of training camp this summer. Welker finished the regular season with 123 catches for 1,348 yards and four touchdowns, but owners might pass on him early in 2010 drafts since his knee won't be in perfect shape heading into Week 1 of next season. We'll keep you posted on Welker's status all offseason long.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker left the team's Week 17 game at Houston with a torn left ACL and MCL, according to a report in the Boston Globe. Welker's knee buckled as he cut on a pass reception and remained down on the field for a bit before being helped off. On the sidelines he buried his face in a towel and was visibly upset before getting carted from the sideline to the locker room. He finished with the one catch for 12 yards and saw Julian Edelman take his place and finish with a career-high 10 catches for 103 yards. "We're pretty shook up," Welker's mom, Shelley, said in the Boston Herald. "He is, too. We're very, very upset."
Analysis: Welker is a huge part of what the Patriots do week in and week out. Without him, their hopes of making a run at the Super Bowl take a hit. And if he did indeed tear an ACL and MCL, it's unlikely that he will be ready for the start of training camp this summer. Welker finished the regular season with 123 catches for 1,348 yards and four touchdowns, but owners might pass on him early in 2010 drafts since his knee won't be in perfect shape heading into Week 1 of next season. We'll keep you posted on Welker's status all offseason long.
News: You already know that Pats head coach Bill Belichick won't say anything about who's playing for how long when his team plays at Houston in Week 17. The Patriots are secured a home game next week with no chance at a bye, and the only way they can attain the No. 3 seed as opposed to the No. 4 seed is if they win. But the Patriots have quite a history of playing deep into the season even with playoff ramifications limited or locked up: Only once in their last six playoff appearances (all under Belichick) have the Patriots rested their starters in the season finale. That includes their 2007 run to a perfect regular season when they took on the Giants in Week 17. "Close game, blowout, we get behind, I'm expecting to play the whole game," QB Tom Brady said this week.
Analysis: There's elevated risk in starting any Patriots players in Week 17 since the team could opt to bench their starters without warning. But they could also deliver. Our hunch? Expect at least a half from Brady, Randy Moss and Wes Welker with the typical unreliable running back rotation from the Patriots. If that's good enough for you, start them in Week 17. Otherwise, consider other options before going with any of these guys since they could seriously disappoint. Check out what else we have to say about players on playoff-bound teams who might rest in Week 17.
News: Patriots QB Tom Brady expects to play and play the whole game Sunday at Houston. That should bode well for WR Randy Moss and WR Wes Welker. "Well, I think as players, we don't factor into any of those decisions that coach (Bill) Belichick makes," Brady said Thursday. "It's our job to prepare to play, and I certainly am. I'm out there doing all of my regular practice stuff. I want to play and I want to do great, and I want to have a great game against a team who's fighting for their playoff lives. This is a meaningful game for us. It's a meaningful game for them, too. It would be great for us to go and win on the road in a really tough environment." Brady was asked if he's talked to Belichick about his playing time. "He says, 'You'll play. Don't worry about that. You'll be playing,'" Brady said.
Analysis: We'd be surprised to see Brady out there for a full game, but the Patriots don't have a history of resting guys. Still, it's a risk to count on Brady, Moss and Welker, though, since New England has battled injuries all season and might want to be cautious. We'd say to play it safe with the Patriots, but there's also the chance that Belichick can go for it with his stars and play them in full against the Texans.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker rebounded from his worst game of the season in Week 15 at Buffalo with 13 catches for 138 yards Sunday against Jacksonville. This was Welker's sixth game with at least 100 yards.
Analysis: Welker continues to play well is a great source of catches and yards. Keep Welker active in all leagues as a No. 1 Fantasy WR in Week 17 at Houston and hope for more outings like this.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker was held to his worst totals of the season in Week 15 when he caught just four passes for 40 yards. He also ran once for 5 yards.
Analysis: Tom Brady had a rough day on Sunday and Welker took the brunt of his struggles. Unfortunately his bad outing came at a terrible time for Fantasy owners, who were looking for their usual output from the diminutive receiver. In Week 16, the Patriots host the Jaguars, and Welker remains an elite Fantasy WR in all formats.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker caught 10 passes for 105 yards in a Week 14 loss to the Panthers.
Analysis: Welker now has five 10-catch, 100-yard outings in the last eight games and just continues to be pretty much uncoverable for opposing defenses. New England plays at Buffalo in Week 15, and even if the weather is bad, Welker remains a must-start elite Fantasy option in all formats.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker caught 10 passes for 167 yards in a Week 13 loss at Miami.
Analysis: While Randy Moss was basically neutralized after the first quarter on Sunday, Welker made his usual solid contribution from start to finish. In Week 14, the Patriots host the Panthers, and Welker will remain a solid No. 1 Fantasy WR.
News: New England WR Wes Welker finally had a bad game in Week 12 on Monday night at New Orleans. Tom Brady struggled overall in the game and Welker finished with just six catches for 32 yards. He also rushed twice for 14 more yards.
Analysis: Welker has been unconscious pretty much all season with Tom Brady throwing the passes and Randy Moss lining up opposite him. As long as that threesome is playing together, Welker will pretty much always be a high-end Fantasy option. The Patriots play at Miami in Week 13. The Dolphins are not very good against the pass and give up big yardage. Welker should be active in most leagues for that one.
News: New England WR Wes Welker should not do nearly as well in Week 12 as he did in Week 11. Welker caught 15 passes for 192 yards against the Jets last weekend and faces New Orleans this Sunday. The Saints are actually worse against the pass, however. Welker has at least nine receptions five straight games.
Analysis: Welker hasn't scored since Week 7 but with at least 84 yards receiving the last six times he has started a football game this season, Welker is clearly a No. 1 Fantasy option for Week 12 against a poor pass defense.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker had a game he surely won't forget during a Week 11 rout of the Jets. Welker had 15 catches for a career-high 192 yards. He went over 200 total yards with a 11-yard carry. Welker was targeted 17 times and his longest catch went 43 yards. A knee injury kept Welker out of a 16-9 loss to the Jets in the second game when Randy Moss was held to four catches for 24 yards. Tom Brady repeatedly hit the sure-handed, elusive Welker over the middle when defensive backs guarded Moss closely. "We play those guys straight up but their one-two punch got the best of us," Jets cornerback Darrelle Revis said. "On one play, (Welker) did a triple move that was crazy, man. He's great. " Welker has 80 catches despite missing two games. "I expect the ball to come my way every time I'm on the field," he said.
Analysis: Welker has been a man possessed since Week 5. He has had at least eight catches in his last six games. He has three 100-yard performances and has broken 10 catches three times in that span. His career day in Week 11 would have been even better had he scored, but you still can't argue with the results. Brady has been in a groove with five straight 300-yard games and Welker has been a key benefactor. He remains a must-start Fantasy option heading into Week 12 against the Saints.
News: Pats WR Wes Welker caught nine passes for 94 yards against the Colts in Week 11. Welker also made an impact as a punt returner, getting 117 yards on five chances including a 69-yard return that set up a Patriots touchdown.
Analysis: Welker saw some pretty good coverage throughout the game and ultimately posted great reception totals as he typically does but was held out of the end zone. The good news is that Welker has caught at least nine passes in each of his last four games, so his opportunities continue to stay consistent. He's a solid No. 2 Fantasy WR with No. 1 potential against the Jets in Week 11.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker caught nine passes for 84 yards in a Week 9 win over Miami.
Analysis: Welker couldn't extend his 100-yard game and touchdown streaks to three on Sunday, but he did contribute -- especially for owners in PPR leagues. Welker remains a No. 1 Fantasy WR for Week 10 at Indianapolis.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker will face his former team, the Dolphins, for the fifth time in Week 9. In the previous four games, Welker has had mixed success with two games over 120 yards and two below 60 yards. Miami ranks 21st against the pass this season and features two rookie starting DBs.
Analysis: Welker has 257 yards over his past two outings and has a great chance to produce another 100-yard game on Sunday as Tom Brady should be able to pick apart the weak Miami secondary. Start Welker as a No. 1 Fantasy WR in all formats.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker caught 10 passes for 107 yards and a touchdown in Week 7 as New England routed the Buccaneers in London. Welker also ran once for 6 yards.
Analysis: Welker now has 28 catches for 343 yards and four touchdowns in his last three games and is climbing up the Fantasy WR rankings to challenge the top five guys right now. The Patriots are off in Week 8 though, so you'll have to look elsewhere for a No. 1 Fantasy option.
News: New England WR Wes Welker (knee) was listed on the practice report despite practicing in full on Wednesday and Thursday. Welker is expected to be fine for Week 7 at Tampa Bay. Welker is coming off an incredible game in Week 6 against the Titans. He caught 10 passes for 150 yards and two touchdowns against Tennessee. Welker last faced the Bucs in 2005. He caught three passes in that game for 97 yards.
Analysis: Welker almost got 100 yards the last time he faced the Bucs and something tells us he should definitely near or surpass the number once again on Sunday. Tom Brady and company have been rolling recently and the Bucs defense leaves a lot to be desired. Welker is easily a No. 1 Fantasy option.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker helped QB Tom Brady set a little NFL history during a 59-0 win Week 6 against the Titans. Brady set a NFL record as he threw five touchdown passes in the second quarter, two to Welker (5,30). "Back to his old self," Welker said of Brady, who is coming off a major knee injury suffered in the first game of the 2008 season. Welker finished with 10 catches for 150 yards. He was targeted 11 times.
Analysis: Welker has three touchdowns in his last two games and is starting to get back into rhythm after being slowed by a knee injury earlier this season. It is also helping Welker that Brady is once again finding his confidence under center. Welker appears to be back to a reliable high-end Fantasy WR. The Patriots play the Bucs in Week 7.
News: New England WR Wes Welker (knee) was not on the injury report on Friday and is expected to start in the team's Week 6 game against the Titans. Welker had been limited in practice on Wednesday and Thursday.
Analysis: Welker caught his first TD pass and finished with 86 yards on eight catches Week 5 at Denver. Think of him as a No. 2 Fantasy option Week 6 as he is still one of New England's top targets.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker ended his 2009 touchdown drought with a score in Week 5 against the Broncos. Welker, who came into the game as questionable with a knee injury, opened the scoring with a 8-yard touchdown reception in the first quarter -- his first score of the season. Welker led the Patriots with eight catches and 86 yards. He was targeted 15 times in the game.
Analysis: Welker almost had a two-touchdown performance in Week 5, but QB Tom Brady missed the 5-9 receiver on a slant route in the fourth quarter. Had Welker made the catch, he would have taken it to the house for a long score. It's great to see Welker have a big game since this knee injury has been somewhat of a nuisance. Welker missed two games earlier this season with the knee issue, and we wouldn't be surprised if he is on the injury report the rest of the year. However, he is still a top target in New England's offense and no worse than a No. 2 Fantasy WR for Week 6 against the Titans.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker (knee) is active and expected to start Week 5 at Denver. Welker was limited in practice all week, but did play in Week 4 against the Ravens after being questionable as well.
Analysis: Welker missed two games earlier this season with the knee issue and we wouldn't be surprised if he is on the injury report the rest of the season. It could be a week-to-week issue with the veteran wideout. However, he is active Week 5 and is a viable Fantasy start.
News: The Patriots have listed WR Wes Welker as questionable for their Week 5 game at Denver. Welker's been dealing with a balky knee that kept him out of a game earlier this season, but there's optimism that he'll play against the Broncos because he practiced, albeit in a limited fashion, all week.
Analysis: The Broncos' pass defense is solid, but Welker is more of a short-area target who should do well making catches and gaining some yards off the quick release from Tom Brady. Keep him active as a No. 2 Fantasy WR in Week 5 -- if he plays. We'll know whether or not he'll be active on Sunday afternoon around 2:45 p.m. ET, so check back with us then for the final word.
News: New England WR Wes Welker was limited in practice on Wednesday and Thursday as the team prepares for its Week 5 game at Denver. Welker was able to play Week 4 against Baltimore after missing two weeks with the knee injury.
Analysis: Welker had a great game Week 1 then missed the next two weeks. He returned with a mediocre game against Baltimore Week 4 and could be poised to return to putting up big stats Week 5 at Denver. Think of him as a solid No. 2 Fantasy option for Week 5 as long as he is able to play.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker returned Sunday against Baltimore after missing two games with a knee injury and had six catches for 48 yards. Welker led the team in catches.
Analysis: It was good to see Welker back on the field, and hopefully he won't miss any more time going forward. Consider Welker a solid No. 2 Fantasy WR in Week 5 at Denver.
News: New England WR Wes Welker will be active for Week 4 against the Baltimore Ravens. Welker was reported active by the Patriots official Twitter feed.
Analysis: Welker is a solid No. 2 Fantasy WR against the Ravens' tough defense. He is a pass-catching machine. Welker is coming off a week in which he missed the game due to his knee injury but he's ready to play Week 4 and remains a solid start in any league.
News: After being limited in practice all week, Patriots WR Wes Welker was listed as questionable for Week 4 vs. the Ravens as he continues to battle a knee injury. He's hopeful to play on Sunday. "We'll see," he said after practice. "Everyday feels different. Sometimes your head tells you one thing but your body tells you something different. ... It's been hard. It's been a long two weeks. It's been frustrating. But it's one of those deals where you want to make sure you're on top of now and [get] out of the way and move on with the rest of the season."
Analysis: Feel free to pencil Welker into lineups right now, but make sure you have a good back-up plan in case he misses the game. When healthy, he's a solid No. 2 Fantasy WR, and that's what he would be for this one if he plays. If he is out, Julian Edelman might get the call again, and he might do fairly well since he didn't play much last week as the Patriots ran the ball a lot -- something they're unlikely to do this week. We'll be first to know whether or not he'll be active this Sunday on Fantasy Football Today, 11 a.m. ET here on CBSSports.com.
News: WR Randy Moss once again had limited participation in practice Thursday because of his back. WR Wes Welker also had limited participation due to his knee injury. Both are considered questionable for Week 4 against Baltimore.
Analysis: What happens on Friday will go a long way in determining his status for Sunday against the Ravens. Your best bet is to monitor his status all the way up until Sunday morning when we'll be first to know whether or not he'll be active on Fantasy Football Today, 11 a.m. ET here on CBSSports.com. Tune in then if you want the scoop on Welker. If he's out, then once again Julian Edelman will be in play as a possible replacement in spite of his limited work in Week 3.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker did make it back to practice on Wednesday on a limited basis after being in and out of practice last week with a knee injury. He didn't play in Week 3 vs. Atlanta and hopes to dress for Week 4 against the Ravens.
Analysis: Expect to know a little bit more about Welker's status later on this week. If he practices all week, then he's got a good chance to play Sunday against the Ravens, and Tom Brady and the Patriots surely will need him for that game. Your best bet is to monitor his status all the way up until Sunday morning when we'll be first to know whether or not he'll be active on Fantasy Football Today, 11 a.m. ET here on CBSSports.com. Tune in then if you want the scoop on Welker. If he's out, then once again Julian Edelman will be in play as a possible replacement in spite of his limited work in Week 3.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker (knee) is out for a second straight game Sunday after being named among the inactives for the Week 3 game vs. Atlanta.
Analysis: Welker will be replaced by Julian Edelman, who is maybe worth a shot as a No. 2 Fantasy WR in deeper leagues. Continue to bench Welker in all formats.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker (knee) did not practice Friday as New England prepared for their Week 3 game vs. Atlanta. Head coach Bill Belichick referred to Welker as being a game-time decision, which he was last week and missed the game.
Analysis: Welker practiced on a limited basis Thursday, but this news is potentially a big setback for his owners as players who don't practice on Friday are often held out on Sunday. Be sure to check back on Sunday morning to see if Welker is listed among the inactives. If he's out, WR Julian Edelman would likely take his place, but he's banged up, too. Welker is a No. 2 Fantasy WR, when healthy, while Edelman would be more of a No. 3 or flex option. We'll be first to know whether or not he'll be active this Sunday on Fantasy Football Today, 11 a.m. ET here on CBSSports.com.
News: New England WR Wes Welker, who missed Week 2 at the Jets with a knee injury and was not at practice Wednesday, returned to practice Thursday on a limited basis. The Patriots were hopeful Welker could return for Week 3 against Atlanta.
Analysis: It sounds like Welker will play against the Falcons, but keep an eye on what happens during practice Friday. If he's able to practice Friday then he should be given the green light in your starting lineup against the Falcons. Consider Welker a No. 2 Fantasy WR when healthy.
News: After missing Week 2 with a knee injury, Patriots WR Wes Welker did not practice Wednesday in preparation for Week 3 vs. the Falcons. But ESPN reports that Welker "expects" to play, according to a team source. If Welker is indeed ruled out, it won't likely be until Sunday just before game time, when rookie Julian Edelman would take his place on the field.
Analysis: You can be sure that the Patriots won't offer much in the way of Welker's status beyond their practice and injury reports. That said, if Welker doesn't practice at all this week he could be considered untouchable for Week 3. We'll keep you posted; obviously if he does practice and make the starting lineup against the Falcons, he should start across all Fantasy leagues. If he's out, Edelman is a suitable replacement.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker (knee) missed New England's Week 2 loss to the Jets after being ruled inactive 90 minutes before kickoff. WR Julian Edelman started in his place and caught eight passes for 98 yards, and he was targeted 16 times.
Analysis: Welker was limited in practice Friday and his knee was apparently just not ready for action on Sunday. We saw Edelman take Welker's reps in the preseason but weren't sure he'd do it in the regular season, too. This is the rare case where a receiver has a useful and reliable Fantasy insurance policy, so owners of Welker should make an effort to land Edelman for Week 3 and beyond in case Welker doesn't get healthy. We'll trace Welker's progress throughout the week and let you know the latest, but expect another game-time decision before New England hosts the Falcons in Week 3.
News: As he was last week, Patriots WR Wes Welker was limited in practice and listed as questionable Friday for his Week 2 game at the Jets. Welker went through these same motions last week only to be active for his game vs. Buffalo, where he caught 12 passes for 93 yards. Assuming he plays, he'll take on a team he's done well against: Welker caught 14 passes in two games against the Jets last season, and those 14 grabs went for 180 yards.
Analysis: There's little reason to believe that Welker won't play -- the Patriots actually need him to fend off a pesky Jets defense this week. While we do recommend you check in with us on Sunday morning for the official word (Fantasy Football Today will know the verdict first), go ahead and pencil in Welker as a solid starting Fantasy receiver for Week 2.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker was limited in practice Wednesday and Thursday with a knee injury, likely the same one that kept him on the injury report last week. Welker did play vs. Buffalo in Week 1 in spite of being limited and managed 12 catches for 93 yards. This week he faces a Jets team he's done fairly well against: Welker caught 14 passes in two games against the Jets last season, and those 14 grabs went for 180 yards. While Randy Moss struggled against the Jets last season, Welker got open at will.
Analysis: The Jets' defense has been re-tooled by new coach Rex Ryan but Welker should still be an attractive Fantasy option, especially in PPR leagues. The Jets had one of the best pass defenses after Week 1, but Welker will continue to get his. He's still worth starting in most Fantasy leagues Week 2 in New York, and the injury report stuff shouldn't sway you at this point.
News: New England WR Wes Welker caught 14 passes in two games against the Jets last season. Those 14 grabs went for 180 yards. While Randy Moss struggled against the Jets last season, Welker got open at will.
Analysis: Welker made 12 grabs in Week 1's win over the Bills on Monday night. He continues to put up fantastic reception numbers and is one of the best points per receptions players in Fantasy. The Jets had one of the best pass defenses after Week 1, but Welker will continue to get his. He's still worth starting in most Fantasy leagues Week 2 in New York.
News: New England WR Wes Welker picked up right where he left off last season as the Patriots go-to receiver on Monday night in a win over the Bills. Catching passes from Tom Brady for the first time since Week 1 of last season, Welker actually dropped a few balls but still managed 12 catches for 93 yards. He did not get into the end zone.
Analysis: Welker is a points per reception league owners' dream. He's also very much a No. 1 Fantasy option. If anyone will rack up catches against the Jets in Week 2, it will be Welker, who can still be active in all leagues. We do believe he'll have less than 12 catches in the game, however.
News: New England WR Wes Welker, who missed some practice this week with a knee injury in preparation for Week 1 on Monday night against the Bills, will play and start for the Patriots.
Analysis: Welker is going to be heavily involved in the offense as he looks for a third straight season of 100-plus catches. He is teaming up with Tom Brady once again and should be a top Fantasy option worth starting in Monday's game.
News:Wes Welker and the Patriots will take on a divisional opponent in Week 1 when New England hosts the Buffalo Bills. Last season, Welker caught 11 passes for 133 yards in two games against Buffalo, but he did not have a touchdown in either game.
Analysis: There will also be one glaring difference in the two games Welker had against Buffalo last season. He will have QB Tom Brady back behind center for the first time since he went down with a major knee injury in Week 1 last season. Welker is going to be heavily involved in the offense as he looks for a third straight season of 100-plus catches. He is a great play in any league as long as he is healthy enough to suit up. Welker is going through practice on a limited basis because of a knee injury, but his status has not reached critical just yet.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker (undisclosed) was held out of Thursday's preseason finale against the Giants. He missed the last two games and finished the preseason with one catch for 32 yards.
Analysis: Welker didn't have a standout preseason but it is nothing to worry about. He is going to be heavily involved in the offense as he looks for a third straight season of 100-plus catches. Welker could appear on the injury report Week 1, but if he is healthy, consider him no worse than a No. 2 Fantasy WR. Welker had 11 catches for 133 yards and no touchdowns in two games against the Bills last season.
News:Wes Welker was held out of the Patriots' third preseason game at the Redskins with an undisclosed injury. He had missed practice during the week.
Analysis: Even though the Patriots are mum on Welker's injury, we don't believe it to be serious. We might not see him in the team's preseason finale but he should still be just fine for the start of the 2009 season. Welker has totaled 223 catches the last two seasons and has developed into a Fantasy stud thanks to his offense. Welker should be considered a solid No. 2 Fantasy option worth a pick in Round 4 in standard leagues and Round 3 in PPR formats.
News: Patriots QB Tom Brady proved for the second straight week during Thursday's preseason game against the Bengals that his knee injury is behind him although some of his passes were off target, including an overthrow of Wes Welker in the end zone. Brady went 4 for 8 for 57 yards, including a 32-yard gain on which Welker ran most of the way.
Analysis: It's unfortunate that Brady didn't have a bit more success getting Welker the ball Thursday, but the good news is that he continues to target the former Texas Tech standout. Welker has totaled 223 catches the last two seasons and has developed into a Fantasy stud. Welker should be considered a solid No. 2 Fantasy option worth a pick in Round 4.
News: Patriots QB Tom Brady is excited to be back on the field with WR Randy Moss. Brady, who missed all of last season with a torn ACL suffered in Week 1, said his receiving corps, led by Moss, is in good shape. "It's easy to have great chemistry with Randy. He's the best receiver, probably, ever to play the game," Brady said to the media at training camp Friday. "You just have to throw it where he's running because he's usually open. We spent a lot of great time this offseason with Wes (Welker), and Joey (Galloway) was here a lot and Greg (Lewis) was here a lot. I feel like we got off to a really good start. Randy, when he's out here, is one of the hardest working guys we have, and he's so fun to have on the team. He's a great teammate, and we have a great relationship. There's been a lot of trust that's been built up over the last few years, and I look forward to being back on the field with him."
Analysis: The Patriots receiving corps, especially Moss and Welker, are thrilled to have Brady back for training camp. Moss remains an elite Fantasy option, and he's worth drafting in Round 2 in all leagues. Welker should be considered a solid No. 2 Fantasy option worth a pick in Round 4. Galloway and Lewis will compete for the No. 3 job, and the winner is worth a late-round flier. With Brady healthy, the Patriots passing game should put up plenty of points again this season.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker finished his 2008 regular season with just two catches for 26 yards in Sunday's win over the Bills. Those two numbers were his absolute worst of the entire season. That said, the Patriots threw the ball just eight times on a very windy afternoon so it wasn't Welker's fault. New England was eliminated from playoff contention later on Sunday.
Analysis: Welker had an amazing season for the Patriots supplanting Randy Moss as the team's go-to option when Tom Brady went down with injury. Welker caught 111 passes for 1,165 yards and three touchdowns and went 11 straight games with at least six grabs with four 100-yard games. Welker will surely be a top draft pick in Fantasy drafts next season.
News: New England WR Wes Welker had seven catches for 68 yards and a touchdown Sunday against Arizona. Welker now has a touchdown in his past two games.
Analysis: Welker remains a No. 1 Fantasy WR in all leagues. He should do well in Week 17 against Buffalo. Earlier this year, Welker had nine catch for 107 yards against the Bills.
News:The Sports Xchange notes that WR Wes Welker continues to emerge as QB Matt Cassel's favorite target and continues to reach milestones on a weekly basis. On Sunday, Welker caught six passes, becoming just the eighth player in NFL history to record back-to-back seasons with at least 100 catches. Catch No. 100 came on a 13-yard touchdown in the second quarter as the Patriots throttled the Raiders.
Analysis: Welker is now over 100 catches on the season and that number should go up the next two weeks a fair amount. It's too bad that the chemistry between Welker and Cassel probably won't mean much next season since Tom Brady is expected to be back from injury. Consider Welker a No. 1 Fantasy option for Week 16 going up against a Cardinals defense that was lit up last week by Tarvaris Jackson and the Vikings.
News: WR Wes Welker had six catches for 69 yards and a touchdown in Week 15 against the Raiders. His long in the game went for 30 yards. Welker now has 18 catches over his last two games for more than 200 yards.
Analysis: With the Patriots getting out to a big lead early, the Patriots didn't have much of a need to throw the ball down the stretch. Welker did lead the team in yards, but Cassel only completed 18 total passes in the game. Fantasy owners were likely hoping for even more from Welker in Week 15. Consider him a No. 1 option in Fantasy for Week 16 against the Cardinals.
News: The New England Patriots have two of the most dangerous receivers in the NFL. Both could have big games against an Oakland Raiders team that likes to play man-to-man defense. Randy Moss, double-teamed most of the season, is trying to break out after a drop in his numbers from last season, when he caught an NFL-record 23 touchdown passes. And Wes Welker, who leads the league with 96 receptions, remains a threat with his sure hands and elusive moves. "Any time you play a team that plays a significant portion of man coverage," Patriots offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels said Tuesday, "there's obviously a burden on the receivers to get off the line of scrimmage, be physical, use their quickness, whatever their strengths may be."
Analysis: Welker has been strong all season, setting an NFL record with at least six catches in each of the first 11 games of a season. He had 12 catches in his 13th game last Sunday, a 24-21 win at Seattle. Welker is the best Fantasy receiver on the Patriots. You heard right, Randy Moss. He's got 96 catches on the season for 1,002 yards. He may have just one touchdown, but he's a No. 1 option in Fantasy in Week 15 at Oakland.
News: The New England Patriots have two of the most dangerous receivers in the NFL. Both could have big games against an Oakland Raiders team that likes to play man-to-man defense. Randy Moss, double-teamed most of the season, is trying to break out after a drop in his numbers from last season, when he caught an NFL-record 23 touchdown passes. And Wes Welker, who leads the league with 96 receptions, remains a threat with his sure hands and elusive moves. "Any time you play a team that plays a significant portion of man coverage," Patriots offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels said Tuesday, "there's obviously a burden on the receivers to get off the line of scrimmage, be physical, use their quickness, whatever their strengths may be."
Analysis: Moss's strengths are his speed, moves and leaping ability, but he's dropped several passes recently. Moss has had two mediocre weeks in a row for the Patriots but still has eight touchdowns on the season and four in his last four games. He remains a No. 1 option in Fantasy and should be able to do big things against the Raiders in Week 15.
News: Give him a full game and New England WR Wes Welker seems to deliver every single time. Against the Seahawks in Week 14, Welker caught 12 passes for 134 yards to lead all receivers. He was everywhere for the Patriots and always came up with the big catch when QB Matt Cassel needed it most.
Analysis: Welker is the best Fantasy receiver on the Patriots. You heard right, Randy Moss. He's got 96 catches on the season for 1,002 yards. He may have just one touchdown, but he's a No. 1 option in Fantasy in Week 15 at Oakland.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker practiced on Wednesday for the first time since taking a brutal game-ending hit from Steelers Safety Ryan Clark. Welker is not expecting an apology for the hit from Clark. "I don't really expect him to. It's a football play," Welker said Wednesday. "No sense in crying or whining about it. You just have to keep on moving on and get ready for the next week."
Analysis: Although Welker practiced Wednesday, he is not an absolute guarantee to play in Sunday's week 14 game against Seattle on Sunday. If he does play, which is most likely, expect the team's leading pass catcher to get back to hauling in a ton of balls from QB Matt Cassel. Welker is a solid No. 2 WR and could have a big week against the Seahawks who are awful against the pass.
News: The Boston Herald reports Patriots teammates believe WR Wes Welker is going to be OK after suffering a tough hit against Pittsburgh's Ryan Clark last week that caused Welker to leave the game. "He's a little firecracker," Patriots guard Logan Mankins said. "He's a tough little guy. He took a big hit. I think he's all right. Hopefully he's all right. You never want to see anything bad happen to anyone, but I think he's a tough guy. He'll get through it." Added Patriots coach Bill Belichick: "I would never question Wes' toughness. I certainly wouldn't question his toughness."
Analysis: Look for Welker to be listed as questionable for Sunday's game at Seattle, but expect him to play in Week 14. Welker will likely return to his usual role of catching plenty of passes for a solid amout of yards against the Seahawks, who are last in the NFL in pass defense.
News: The Providence Journal reports Patriots WR Wes Welker left Week 13 against Pittsburgh with a head injury when he was leveled by Ryan Clark on an incomplete pass. "You can tell that was a hard hit. It must have been a hard hit if Wes Welker stays down, because he's a pretty tough guy," Kevin Faulk said. Bill Belichick wouldn't comment on the hit to Welker. "We will see what we have for next week," Belichick said. "I am not sure where that is right now, but we'll see what we have going forward to next week. You hate to see anybody go out of the game." Welker finished the game with four catches for 30 yards, which snapped a streak of three-straight games with over 100 yards receiving.
Analysis: Keep an eye on Welker and hope he is OK heading into Week 14 at Seattle. When healthy, Welker is a solid No. 2 Fantasy option. He is a great source of catches and yards and has become a safety blanket for QB Matt Cassel.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker caught eight balls for 120 yards in a Week 12 win over the Dolphins. He went 9-138 in Miami last season.
Analysis: With the way Matt Cassel is playing right now, Welker is looking like a No. 1 Fantasy WR once again. However, things get markedly tougher in Week 13 when New England hosts Pittsburgh. Start Welker in all formats for that matchup, as he should be able to get involved plenty against the Steelers with their run-stuffing ability.
News: In what will be a significant battle in the AFC East standings, WR Wes Welker and the Patriots will play at the Dolphins in Week 12. On paper, the matchup looks great -- the Dolphins rank 20th against the pass and have allowed three 100-yard receivers in their last six games (but none in their last two). But Welker was limited in his earlier meeting against the Dolphins, catching six passes for 55 yards with a 19-yard rush. That's a far cry from his totals against them last year: 187 yards and two scores. Welker has posted back-to-back 100-yard games for the first time this season and is still on pace to break his 112 receptions from a year ago.
Analysis: The matchup admittedly looks good for Welker, who is best used in yardage leagues and not touchdown-only formats. Consider him a top-10 Fantasy WR for this matchup and expect to see him starting in the majority of leagues. His gorge of receptions only helps his yardage accumulate.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker caught seven passes for 108 yards in Week 11 against the Jets on Thursday night. Welker's long went for 29 yards as Matt Cassel went for over 400 yards for the game. The Patriots drove late in the game to tie it and sent it into overtime and Welker made two late catches to become the first player in NFL history with six or more catches in each of his first 10 games.
Analysis: Cassel looked pretty good against a tough Jets defense and that bodes well for Welker to continue putting up solid stats each week. Welker now has at least six catches in every single game this season but has just one touchdown. Still that kind of consistency makes him worth starting each and every week in Fantasy. That should continue in Week 12 at Miami. Welker caught six balls for 55 yards the last time the Patriots faced the Dolphins this season.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker had 10 catches for 107 yards Sunday against Buffalo. He also had one carry for 7 yards. This was Welker's best game of the season in yards and catches.
Analysis: Welker remains a great Fantasy option in leagues where receptions count and is capable of outings like this when Matt Cassel looks in his direction. Continue to start Welker as a No. 2 Fantasy option in all leagues and look for a good outing in Week 11 against the Jets on Thursday night. Welker had seven catches for 72 yards in Week 2 against the Jets.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker had seven catches for 37 yards Sunday at Indianapolis. This was the fifth time this season Welker has had at least seven catches. The yardage, however, was his lowest of the season.
Analysis: Welker is a great start in PPR leagues but remains a low-end No. 2 Fantasy option in standard leagues. He only has one touchdown on the season. Hopefully the catch total remain the same, but the yardage and touchdown totals increase in Week 10 against Buffalo.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker caught seven passes for 79 yards in a Week 8 win over the Rams.
Analysis: Welker only has one touchdown this season, but he's been a solid start in most leagues all season, especially points-per-reception leagues. In Week 9, Welker and the Pats visit Indianapolis, and he remains a low-end No. 2 Fantasy WR for the time being.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker, who scored eight touchdowns last season, reached the end zone for the first time this season Week 7 against the Broncos, scoring on a six-yard catch-and-run in the third quarter. He finished with six catches for 63 yards.
Analysis: In the Patriots offense, Welker essentially serves as an extension of the running game, which explains his 42 receptions this season even though he doesn't have a 100-yard game. He remains extremely valuable in points-per-receptions leagues, but think of him as a No. 2 or 3 Fantasy WR in most leagues for Week 8 against the Rams.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker caught a season-high nine passes for 73 yards Week 6 at San Diego one week after catching eight passes for 73 yards. He didn't score a touchdown, though, and still has yet to score one this season.
Analysis: Welker looks like he has finally gotten on the same page as QB Matt Cassel and should continue to thrive in the short passing game. Think of him as a No. 2 Fantasy WR with a great matchup Week 7 against the Broncos.
News:Wes Welker gained 91 yards on eight catches in Week 2 last season against Week 6 opponent New England and 56 yards and a TD on seven catches in their playoff meeting. More importantly, though, the Chargers are currently dead last in the NFL against the pass. They've allowed 265.6 yards per game with 10 touchdowns through the air.
Analysis: Welker caught a season-high eight catches for 73 yards in a Week 5 win at San Francisco. He looks to finally be getting on the same page as QB Matt Cassel and that could mean big things for him against the Chargers' struggling pass defense. Start him in all leagues.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker caught a season-high eight catches for 73 yards in a Week 5 win at San Francisco.
Analysis: Welker was his usual self on Sunday as he used his speed and superior route-running to find holes in the 49ers defense. While he didn't break a catch for a touchdown, his catch and yardage totals were pretty solid. In Week 6, the Patriots play at San Diego and Welker should remain a solid No. 2 Fantasy WR option for the period.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker is not on the injury report for Week 5 against the 49ers after taking limited practice reps Thursday because of a groin injury. Welker was back at a full practice Friday.
Analysis: Welker is averaging almost 60 yards receiving per game this year as Matt Cassel's No. 1 option since the QB hasn't gelled with Randy Moss. Welker has yet to score this year, though, but that could come against the Niners, who are one of the league's weaker teams against the pass. Consider Welker a No. 2 Fantasy WR.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker (groin) went through limited practice reps Thursday as the team prepares for Week 5 at San Francisco. Welker practiced in full Wednesday and wasn't even on the injury report.
Analysis: Welker is averaging almost 60 yards receiving per game this year as Matt Cassel's No. 1 option since the QB hasn't gelled with Randy Moss. Welker has yet to score this year, though, but that could come against the Niners, who are one of the league's weaker teams against the pass. Consider Welker a No. 2 Fantasy WR.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker faces the San Francisco 49ers in Week 5 after a bye week. Welker is averaging almost 60 yards receiving per game this year as Matt Cassel's No. 1 option since the QB hasn't gelled with Randy Moss. Welker has yet to score this year, though, but that could come against the Niners, who are one of the league's lesser teams against the pass.
Analysis: Welker heads into Week 5 in San Francisco as a low-end No. 2 option because the Patriots have had trouble throwing the ball thus far on the year. Welker is worth starting in deeper leagues in the "slot" position.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker caught six passes for 55 yards and also ran once for 19 yards in a Week 3 loss to the Dolphins.
Analysis: Welker remains the No. 1 option for Matt Cassel, who has yet to really jell properly with Randy Moss. Welker remains a high-end No. 2 Fantasy WR with Brady gone, but be sure to bench him in Week 4 as the Patriots have their bye week.
News: In two career meetings vs. his former team, the Dolphins, New England WR Wes Welker has 14 receptions for 187 yards (13.4 avg.) with two touchdowns. The Patriots host Miami in Week 3.
Analysis: Welker's value took a hit when Tom Brady went down in Week 1, but he managed to quickly forge a nice relationship with Matt Cassel in Week 2 as he caught seven passes for 72 yards. He should be able to find plenty of gaps in the porous Miami secondary on Sunday and is at worst a high-end No. 2 Fantasy WR in Week 3.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker finished with a game-high seven catches for 72 yards during a Week 2 win against the Jets. Welker, who didn't score, was targeted 11 times by Matt Cassel, who was making his first career start in place of Tom Brady, including three times on the opening drive.
Analysis: Welker has 13 catches through the first two weeks, but is still looking for his first touchdown. The good news here, however, is that Welker is still very much active in the passing game despite Brady's absence. Consider Welker at worst a No. 2 Fantasy WR heading into Week 3 against the Dolphins. Welker had 14 catches for 187 yards and two touchdowns in two games last season against Miami.
News: In Week 2, Patriots WR Wes Welker will aim for his third consecutive game at the Jets with six or more receptions. Last season, Welker has nine catches for 91 yards and a touchdown in two games against the Jets.
Analysis: Welker remains a must-start in Fantasy, even if Matt Cassel is his quarterback. Start him as a low-end No. 1 WR at the Jets in Week 2.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker caught six passes for 51 yards with a fumble lost in Week 1 vs. the Chiefs. Three of Welker's receptions came in the first two drives for the Patriots with Tom Brady under center; he hurt his left knee in the first quarter and is questionable for the foreseeable future.
Analysis: Welker remains a must-start in Fantasy, even if Matt Cassel is his quarterback. Start him as a low-end No. 1 WR at the Jets in Week 2.
News: New England WR Wes Welker was back at practice on Sunday for the Patriots after missing the team's preseason finale against the Giants, reports the team's official website.
Analysis: Welker was healthy enough to practice on Sunday and so we believe he'll be just fine next Sunday against the Chiefs. Welker is a great source of catches and should still be drafted as a low-end No. 1/high-end No. 2 Fantasy WR. It's safe to get him into your lineup for Week 1.
News: New England WR Wes Welker was not active for Thursday's preseason finale against the New York Giants and could miss some time during the regular season. The Patriots haven't said how much time he's expected to miss with a rib injury so he remains questionable to start the season vs. Kansas City on Sept. 7.
Analysis: The fact the Patriots didn't offer up any information about Welker's injury is not surprising. All we can do is hope for the best and pray that head coach Bill Belichick opens up about the injury in the coming days. Fat chance. Welker is a great source of catches and should still be drafted as a low-end No. 1/high-end No. 2 Fantasy WR. If anything changes, we will let you know.
News: The Patriots, already without QB Tom Brady (foot) during Friday's preseason game against the Eagles, could have another problem. Wes Welker, who tied for the NFL lead with 112 receptions last season, left with a rib injury in the second quarter and didn't return. The team did not comment on his condition. He had no catches before leaving the game.
Analysis: The fact the Patriots didn't offer up any information about Welker's injury is not surprising. All we can do is hope for the best and pray that head coach Bill Belichick opens up about the injury in the coming days. Fat chance. Welker is a great source of catches and should still be drafted as a low-end No. 1/high-end No. 2 Fantasy WR. If anything changes, we will let you know.
News:Patriots WR Wes Welker played well in Sunday's preseason game at Tampa Bay. He had three catches for 25 yards and showed no ill effects from an undisclosed injury that started his training camp on the PUP list.
Analysis: Welker, who tied for the NFL lead in receptions last year, is expected to be fine for the start of the season and played well against the Bucs. He is a great source of catches and a low-end No. 1/high-end No. 2 Fantasy WR coming into 2008. He is worth drafting at the end of Round 3 or beginning of Round 4 in all leagues.
News: New England wide receiver Wes Welker returned from the physically unable to perform list Saturday and practiced.
Analysis: Coming off his best year in the NFL, Welker is expected to reprise his role as a short-yardage receiver for the Patriots. After getting 112 receptions last year, he remains in line to get over 100 again this year. Consider him a low-end No. 1/high-end No. 2 Fantasy WR in all leagues worth a pick between Rounds 3 and 5.
News: The Patriots opened camp with WR Wes Welker on the Physically Unable to Perform list Thursday with an undisclosed injury. That means he won't practice with the team until he's healthy. The team can take him off the list at any point during the preseason but will lose him for at least six games if he's still on the list just before Week 1.
Analysis: Coming off his best year in the NFL, Welker is expected to reprise his role as a short-yardage receiver for the Patriots. After getting 112 receptions last year, he remains in line to get over 100 again this year, even with him being on the PUP list. We'll monitor Welker's health in the coming days, but expect him to be fine for the start of the regular season. Consider him a low-end No. 1/top-end No. 2 Fantasy WR in all leagues worth a pick between Rounds 3 and 5.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker, in his first year in New England, had a career season in 2007. He tied Bengals WR T.J. Houshmandzadeh for the NFL lead in catches with 112 and also added 1,175 yards and eight touchdowns, all career highs. Welker will serve as the No. 2 option for the Patriots if Randy Moss stays as expected as a pending free agent or he could be the No. 1 guy if Moss leaves.
Analysis: Look for Welker to continue to thrive in his role as the slot wide receiver. He might be the best slot receiver in the NFL. It's now safe to draft Welker as a low-end No. 1/high No. 2 Fantasy WR in all leagues, and he's a stud in leagues where receptions count.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker caught seven passes for 56 yards Sunday in the AFC Championship game against the Chargers, including a six-yarder for a touchdown in the fourth quarter. He now has a touchdown in each of the Patriots two playoff games.
Analysis: The Patriots will no doubt continue to rely on Welker in the Super Bowl, so keep him active in Fantasy. An afterthought in Miami to open his career, Welker exploded onto the Fantasy scene in 2007, proving such a complement to stud Randy Moss that he, in essence, became a stud himself. After putting together a 112-catch, 1,175-yard, eight-touchdown season, don't expect to sneak away with him on Draft Day 2008. He might even go among the top 10 receivers.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker caught nine passes for 54 yards Saturday in the Divisional Playoff game against the Jaguars, including one for a six-yard score in the third quarter. He also picked up 13 rushing yards and 14 return yards.
Analysis: The Patriots will no doubt continue to rely on Welker throughout the playoffs, so keep him active in Fantasy. An afterthought in Miami to open his career, Welker exploded onto the Fantasy scene in 2007, proving such a complement to stud Randy Moss that he, in essence, became a stud himself. After putting together a 112-catch, 1,175-yard, eight-touchdown season, don't expect to sneak away with him on Draft Day 2008. He might even go among the top 10 receivers.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker closed 2007 with the same kind of performance that he put up all season: 11 catches, 122 yards. He also had 10 return yards. Though he didn't score a touchdown Week 17 at the N.Y. Giants, he did snap a four-game streak without 100 yards receiving.
Analysis: An afterthought in Miami to open his career, Welker exploded onto the Fantasy scene in 2007, proving such a complement to stud Randy Moss that he, in essence, became a stud himself. After putting together a 112-catch, 1,175-yard, eight-touchdown season, don't expect to sneak away with him on Draft Day 2008. He might even go among the top 10 receivers.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker caught five passes for 49 yards and a touchdown in New England's 28-7 win over the Dolphins in Week 16. He how has 101 catches on the year.
Analysis: Welker has been pretty quiet the last couple of weeks, although his poor outing in Week 15 was more due to the windy conditions than anything else. He was actually out-shined by a guy wearing his former number with the Dolphins on Sunday, as Greg Camarillo found the end zone while Welker didn't. He will likely remain a low-end No. 1 Fantasy WR for Week 17 against the Giants.
News: Earlier this season, ex-Dolphin Wes Welker slammed the Dolphins for 138 yards and two touchdowns on nine receptions. Welker faces those same Dolphins again in Week 16 at home, and should deliver another stat bonanza ... assuming Mother Nature cooperates. Remember, Welker's numbers were hampered by a strong wind that led the Patriots to run the ball much more than throw last week.
Analysis: The matchup is a non-issue for Fantasy owners, so all you really need to do is check the weather forecast. Initial reports suggested a cold day without strong winds or rain at Foxboro, which only helps Welker. Unless it's a complete blizzard, expect Welker to be in your lineup in Week 16.
News: Because of blowing winds at Foxboro Stadium, Patriots WR Wes Welker caught three passes for just 30 yards against the Jets in Week 16. He added a rush for minus-2 yards.
Analysis: With the win, New England clinched home-field advantage throughout the AFC playoffs. Might this mean that the team will rest Wes Welker in Week 16 when they play vs. Miami? Probably not until they build a big lead, and by then, Welker will have likely played a big role in that effort against his old team. He remains a low-end No. 1/top-end No. 2 Fantasy WR.
News: Coming off his worst outing of the year, Patriots WR Wes Welker got back involved in the New England offense in Week 14 when he caught nine passes for 78 yards and a touchdown. He will look to remain involved in Week 15 against the Jets, and needs 26 receiving yards to reach 1,000 for the first time in career.
Analysis: Welker could be running in some serious snow conditions on Sunday as the weather is expected to be less than stellar for the game. Still, Brady will likely find some way to get him the ball and Welker is a solid No. 1 Fantasy WR option in Week 15.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker had nine catches for 78 yards and a touchdown Sunday against the Steelers.
Analysis: Welker's breakout season continues. He should be considered a solid No. 2 Fantasy WR in Week 15 against the Jets.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker comes into Week 14's big contest with the Pittsburgh Steelers only 104 yards shy of breaking through the 1,000-yard barrier for the first time this season. He is coming off his worst outing of the year, a 3-18 game against the Ravens, so he will out to prove he can still be a productive WR against the tough Steelers D.
Analysis: Welker had four catches for 67 yards against the Steelers in last season's opener while playing for Miami, so he does have a pretty solid history against the Pats, all be it a short one. As part of such a pass-happy offense, we consider Welker a low-end No. 1 or high-end No. 2 Fantasy WR in Week 2, depending on the size of your league.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker had his worst receiving output of the season Week 13 at Baltimore, catching three passes for only 18 yards. He also had a one-yard punt return.
Analysis: Welker had just come off a 149-yard performance, so we hardly think Monday's game should dissuade you from using him in Fantasy. With 896 already, he should easily clear the 1,000-yard mark even as the second receiving option on his own team. Since he also has seven touchdowns, he's a clear must-start in Fantasy -- and probably more of a No. 1 option than a No. 2. The Patriots host the Steelers in Week 14.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker set career highs in receptions (13) and receiving yards (149) in Week 12's win over the Eagles and will try to at least replicate those stats in Week 13 against the Ravens, who rank 15th in passing yards allowed this season.
Analysis: Welker benefited from Randy Moss' off day in Week 12, but you know Moss won't be held to five catches and 43 yards very often. Still, Welker will get plenty of looks from Tom Brady on Monday night and is always a threat to put up nice Fantasy numbers. He has only two really poor games in 11 outings this season, so feel confident in making him your No. 1 WR in Week 13.
News: Though he didn't score a touchdown, Patriots WR Wes Welker played a huge role on offense Week 12 against the Eagles, catching a team-high 13 balls for 149 yards.
Analysis: With 878 already, Welker should easily clear the 1,000-yard mark even as the second receiving option on his own team. Since he also has seven touchdowns, he's a clear must-start in Fantasy -- and probably more of a No. 1 option than a No. 2. The Patriots play at Baltimore in Week 13.
News:Wes Welker continues to be a great short-area outlet for Tom Brady to lean on. He's caught at least five passes in each of his last five games, and at least seven in four of those games. Welker had a TD streak snapped last week when he caught seven passes for 78 yards at Buffalo.
Analysis: Expect Welker to continue being a key part of the Patriots' offense. Look his way as a low-end No. 1/top-end No. 2 Fantasy WR for Week 12.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker had seven catches for 78 yards in Week 11 at Buffalo.
Analysis: Welker continues to be one of the Fantasy surprises of the season and he's the second target in the New England offense and that's one of the better situations in Fantasy right now. Welker should be starting in all Fantasy formats for Week 12 vs. Philadelphia.
News: The Patriots announced on Saturday that WR Wes Welker was taken off the team's injury report. He is expected to start at Buffalo in Week 11.
Analysis: Welker had missed Friday's practice, but not with an injury (he was listed as a "team decision"). Welker heads into the game against the Bills looking to make it five straight games with a touchdown catch. He caught six passes for 69 yards in their meeting earlier this season. He remains a must-start low-end No. 1 Fantasy receiver.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker appears on the Week 11 injury report as questionable because of a team decision, but the team has not listed an injury. He took limited practice reps all week and there has been no discussions about him sitting out against the Bills Week 11. Welker heads into the game against the Bills looking to make it five straight games with a touchdown catch. He caught six passes for 69 yards in their meeting earlier this season.
Analysis: Buffalo's pass defense is far from solid and Welker could see plenty of targets from Tom Brady on Sunday. We rank Welker as the eighth-best WR option in Week 11 and is a must-start in all leagues as part of this offense. Don't worry about the questionable tag at this time, but keep tabs on his status just in case some news surfaces.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker heads into Week 11's meeting with the Buffalo Bills looking to make it five straight games with a touchdown catch. He caught six passes for 69 yards in their meeting earlier this season.
Analysis: Buffalo's pass defense is far from solid and Welker and co. could see plenty of targets from Tom Brady on Sunday night. We rank Welker as the eighth-best WR option in Week 11 and is a must-start in all leagues as part of this offense.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker continued to add to his career year by scoring his seventh touchdown of the season Week 9 against the Colts. Welker finished the game with five catches for 38 yards. His longest reception was for 12 yards, but he made his biggest impact with a 3-yard touchdown reception in the fourth quarter.
Analysis: Welker is about to pass his 2006 totals (67 receptions, 687 yards) in the next game or two, and the move to New England has done wonders for his career. He is clearly Tom Brady's second favorite receiver and that even puts him as a No. 1 Fantasy WR. The Patriots don't return to action until Week 11 against the Bills, so hopefully you can make do without Welker in Week 10.
News: Wes Welker has developed into a No. 1 Fantasy WR thanks to his supporting cast and New England's pass-happy offense. He leads the team in receptions and is second to Randy Moss in yardage and touchdowns. But will he continue to be a key option against the Colts in Week 9? Indianapolis' pass defense currently ranks first in the league and hasn't allowed a touchdown pass in two games. Moreover, the Colts haven't allowed a 100-yard receiver in 23 straight home games (including playoffs).
Analysis: There are two truths: The Colts haven't played a prolific passing offense with top-threat receivers this season, and Welker's in a fantastic spot to provide mismatches and catch a lot of balls. Those factors outweigh any stat about the Colts defense. If you own Welker, you've got to start him for this high-powered matchup.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker continued to be Tom Brady's best friend, catching nine passes for 89 yards with a touchdown vs. Washington in Week 8. Welker has caught at least nine passes and scored at least once in each of his last three games.
Analysis: Fantasywise, Welker has been better than Randy Moss over New England's last three. Continue to start him and expect No. 1 Fantasy WR-type stats when he plays at Indianapolis in Week 9.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker heads into Week 8 seeking a third straight game with 100 receiving yards and two touchdowns. He will try to achieve it against the Redskins.
Analysis: Just exactly what role Welker would play in New England was a bit of a mystery coming into this season, but it's clear that Tom Brady has a lot of trust in his speedy little slot guy and loves to find him in the red zone. Welker is a clear No. 1 WR in Fanatsy play and should be starting in all formats every week until further notice.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker torched his former team, the Miami Dolphins, in Week 7 as he racked up 138 yards on nine catches and two touchdowns in New England's 49-28 victory on Sunday. Welker caught scores of 14 and 16 yards from Tom Brady.
Analysis: Welker found holes aplenty in the Dolphins' porous secondary on Sunday and Brady made sure he took advantage of that by finding the former Texas Tech Raider on numerous occasions. After scaring many folks away from himself by poor performances in Weeks 3 and 4, Welker is now officially back after consecutive games with over 120 yards receiving. Consider him a No. 1 Fantasy WR against the Redskins in Week 8.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker will face his former team for the first time this season when New England plays at Miami in Week 7. Welker had a career-high 124 yards receiving in Week 6 against the Cowboys.
Analysis: The Miami pass defense is ranked sixth in the league in yards allowed, but that's only because teams are running all over Miami (they rank 31st against the run). Although the Patriots are hurting in the RB department at the moment, Kevin Faulk and/or Kyle Eckel and /or Heath Evans and/or Kevan Barlow shouldn't have any issues moving the ball on the ground on Sunday, which should open things up for Welker, who we consider a low-end No. 1 or high-end No. 2 Fantasy WR for Week 7.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker came into Week 6 slumping. He corrected that trend against the Cowboys. Welker, who had just seven receptions for 41 yards in his previous two games, busted out for 124 yards on 11 receptions against Dallas. He found the end zone twice, scoring on receptions of 12 and 35 yards.
Analysis: The frustration was mounting for Fantasy owners after such a great start to the season for Welker, but he broke out of his slump with his first career 100-yard game. He might be hard-pressed to repeat this performance against a top five pass defense in the Dolphins Week 7, but Welker still remains a solid No. 3 Fantasy WR.
News: After grabbing 20 balls for 221 yards in his first three games this season, Patriots WR Wes Welker has taken a step back in the last two games, catching only seven passes for 41 yards.
Analysis: Welker will look to get back on track when New England heads to Dallas in Week 6 for a battle of the unbeatens. We don't like Welker's chances of a monster game against the Cowboys' 12th-ranked passing defense and consider him a low-end No. 2 Fantasy WR for this week.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker caught four passes for 19 yards during a Week 5 win over the Browns. His longest reception went for seven yards. Welker now has seven receptions for 41 yards in his last two games after netting 20 receptions for 221 yards in his first three games.
Analysis: As the calendar turned to October, so did Welker's production. It appears as though teams are paying him a little more respect and is having a hard time getting open. The Patriots have a lot of offensive options at their disposal, so spreading the ball around might be tough some weeks. Welker is still a decent No. 3 or No. 4 Fantasy WR at this time, let's just hope he starts picking up his production soon. The Patriots play the Cowboys Week 6.
News: After a disappointing performance in Week 4 when he caught only three passes for 22 yards, Patriots WR Wes Welker will look to get back on track when New England hosts Cleveland in Week 5. Welker had two catches for 22 yards against the Browns as a member of the Miami Dolphins in 2005. You think he's glad to be out of South Florida right now?
Analysis: Cleveland's pass defense is ranked 30th in the league, so expect Tom Brady to have one of his usual stellar days in Week 5. Welker will have the occasional 'off' week, because Brady likes to spread the ball around so much. Look at Welker as a decent low-end No. 2 Fantasy WR for this weekend.
News: Wes Welker finished with three receptions for 22 yards in Week 4 at Cincinnati and he also had a carry for 27 yards on a reverse.
Analysis: Welker was a little disappointing in Week 4 against a soft defense after turning in some impressive totals through the first three games. He remains a decent low-end No. 2 Fantasy receiver or 'flex' option heading into Week 5 against Cleveland.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker has 20 catches for 221 yards and a touchdown on the season. He has averaged at least six catches and 74 yards a game this season. Now he faces Cincinnati's pass defense, which is ranked No. 27.
Analysis: Look for Welker to keep up the solid start to his season. He should be considered a low-end No. 2 Fantasy option for this week.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker caught six passes for 69 yards in Week 3 vs. Buffalo.
Analysis: Welker has emerged as the team's No. 2 receiver, behind Randy Moss and ahead of Donte' Stallworth, in the first three weeks of the season. In Week 4, he faces a very good matchup at Cincinnati (remember what Cleveland did against them?). Start him as a third receiver.
News: Wes Welker had three catches on the Patriots' first series of the season. He scored their first touchdown. And he put on a nifty move to get past a defender and into the end zone. No one has grabbed more passes in the NFL this year than New England newcomer Randy Moss. After the team's opening possession, though, he wasn't even No. 1 on his team. Welker has been under the radar while making short catches over the middle and on the flanks as the Patriots have gotten off to a 2-0 start. "Wes is a tough kid," coach Bill Belichick said Thursday. "We saw that playing against him twice a year at Miami. I don't think that's ever been a question."
Analysis: While the 6-foot-4 Moss runs with speed and smoothness, the 5-9 Welker is more of a stop-and-go kind of receiver, grabbing the ball, letting a defender fly by and then accelerating quickly. Get the ball to him in the flat and he fakes out a defensive back. Throw to him in the center of the field and he can avoid being flattened by much taller and heavier defenders. Welker has never scored an offensive touchdown against the Bills, his Week 3 opponent. He's also never caught for more than 56 yards in a game or snared more than five passes in a contest vs. Buffalo. Welker is enjoying his role as a go-to receiver in the Patriots system and should thrive against the banged-up Bills. Welker is a solid No. 3 Fantasy option for Week 3.
News: Wes Welker has never scored an offensive touchdown against the Bills, his Week 3 opponent. He's also never caught for more than 56 yards in a game or snared more than five passes in a contest vs. Buffalo. But in two games so far this season, Welker has topped those numbers, leading the Patriots with 14 catches with 152 receiving yards and a score. The Patriots should do well throwing the ball against a Bills defense ranked 31st overall through two weeks.
Analysis: Welker is enjoying his role as a go-to receiver in the Patriots system and should thrive against the banged-up Bills. Welker is a solid No. 3 Fantasy option for Week 3.
News: Welker carried once for six yards in Week 2 against the Chargers and he also reeled in eight receptions for 91 yards in the win.
Analysis: Welker has been outperforming Donte' Stallworth for the Patriots and appears more like the No. 2 receiver for Tom Brady. Welker is a solid No. 3 Fantasy option heading into Week 3 against the Bills.
News: Patriots WR Wes Welker, in his debut with New England, had six catches for 61 yards and a touchdown Sunday against the Jets. He was the Patriots second-leading WR behind Randy Moss (nine catches, 183 yards).
Analysis: Welker is a solid No. 3 Fantasy WR in Week 2 against San Diego. Hopefully Tom Brady continues to look his way as the season goes on.
News: Vince Young was pounded by an aggressive Patriots defense one week after being punished by his coach. The strong scrambler was sacked four times in the Tennessee Titans' 27-24 win over New England on Friday night. Coach Jeff Fisher had benched him for their exhibition opener for spending the night before the game at home instead of the team hotel. Patriots quarterback Tom Brady took his own lumps. He was hit hard and knocked down twice as he threw the ball. Both passes were intercepted. He played seven series before Matt Cassel took over late in the first half. Brady finished with respectable numbers -- 10-for-19 for 145 yards, a 28-yard touchdown pass to Wes Welker and two interceptions. He got up slowly after both.
Analysis: The Patriots have a history of finding unheralded, versatile players and turning them into solid performers on the field. Expect the Pats to use Welker both as a slot receiver and as a kick returner, maximizing his potential. He has a shot at getting around 800 yards and four touchdowns next season; consider him a quality late-round flier, especially in deep leagues that start multiple receivers.
News: The Dolphins dealt restricted free-agent receiver Wes Welker to the Patriots for their second- and seventh-round draft picks in April. New England's second-round pick is No. 60 overall. Welker was the Dolphins' third receiver last season, but he led them with a career-high 67 catches for 687 yards and a touchdown (all career bests) with a 22.2 kickoff return average last season.
Analysis: The Patriots have a history of finding unheralded, versatile players and turning them into solid performers on the field. Expect the Pats to use Welker both as a slot receiver and as a kick returner, maximizing his potential. He has a shot at getting around 800 yards and four touchdowns next season; consider him a quality late-round flier, especially in deep leagues that start multiple receivers.
News: Numerous sources, including the Palm Beach Post, are reporting that Dolphins restricted free agent Wes Welker could sign an offer sheet with the Patriots, giving him a contract offer that the Dolphins may not be able to match. New England would use Welker both as a receiver and as a special-teams return man. The Post reports that the Dolphins may be willing to let Welker go, opting to sign ex-Bengals WR Kelley Washington instead. Welker caught 67 passes for 687 yards and a touchdown (all career bests) with a 22.2 kickoff return average last season.
Analysis: Welker could play as a Fantasy reserve in 2007 if he found his way to New England. Monitor his status this offseason.
News: The Dolphins have tendered restricted free agents DB Yeremiah Bell, punter Donnie Jones, QB Cleo Lemon and WR/KR Wes Welker. If any of them sign an offer sheet with another team, the Dolphins have the right of first refusal. If they opt not to match the offer sheet, they would receive as compensation a second-round pick for Bell, Lemon or Welker. Jones would fetch a seventh.
Analysis: We think it's interesting that the Dolphins used the second-round tender on Lemon, Bell and Welker. Clearly, they want to deter other teams from signing any of them, and they'll probably succeed in that regard. Fantasywise, Welker carries value as a reserve WR in deeper Fantasy leagues while Bell is a nice DB to keep on as a prospect in dynasty leagues. Lemon will be a backup QB for Miami next season and shouldn't be drafted.
News: Several Dolphins did well against the Colts, including RB Sammy Morris (two carries for 19 yards), TE Justin Peelle (two catches for 31 yards), WR Wes Welker (three catches for 23 yards) and WR Derek Hagan (one catch for 6 yards).
Analysis: None of these players have any Fantasy value for 2007.
News: Wes Welker played in Week 16 against the Jets and he managed one reception for 11 yards.
Analysis: Welker is at best worth using in Week 17 at Indianapolis as a No. 4 Fantasy receiver or 'flex' option. He is not someone to consider on Draft Day in 2007.
News: The Dolphins listed WR Marty Booker (ankle) as doubtful to play vs. the Jets in Week 16. Booker hurt his ankle in the third quarter against the Bills last week.
Analysis: Expect Wes Welker and rookie Derek Hagan to take over Booker's reps. When healthy, Booker is a decent No. 2 WR, but expect him to be off your roster for Week 16.
News: Dolphins WR Wes Welker had four catches for 56 yards against Buffalo.
Analysis: Welker should be considered a No. 4 WR or flex player against the Jets in Week 16.
News: Dolphins WR Wes Welker (shoulder) is listed as probable for Week 14 vs. New England.
Analysis: Welker will likely play against the Patriots and should be considered a low-end No. 3 Fantasy WR for Week 14.
News: Dolphins WR Wes Welker had five catches for 42 yards against Detroit.
Analysis: Welker has done well in leagues where receptions count. Consider him a low-end No. 3 WR for Week 13 against Jacksonville.
News: Dolphins WR Wes Welker (ankle) is listed as probable for Week 12 at Detroit.
Analysis: It looks as though Welker will be ready to go on Thursday, but he could be slowed a bit by his ankkle injury. Consider Welker a No. 3 WR for Week 12 against the Lions on Thanksgiving Day, but keep your expectations in line.
News: Several Dolphins suffered injuries against Minnesota. DB Will Allen (groin) and LB Channing Crowder (hip) were hurt in the first hald. DB Travares Tillman (hand) was hurt in the second half and didn't return. DL David Bowens (knee and ankle) was hurt in the third quarter. And DB Michael Lehan (nose) and WR Wes Welker (ankle) all returned after receiving medical attention.
Analysis: Keep an eye on the status of these players prior to putting them in your lineup for Week 12 against Detroit.
News: Dolphins WR Wes Welker had four catches for 59 yards against the Vikings.
Analysis: Consider Welker a No. 3 WR for Week 12 against the Lions on Thanksgiving Day.
News: Dolphins WR Wes Welker had three catches for 46 yards against Kansas City.
Analysis: Consider Welker a good No. 3 WR for Week 11 against Minnesota.
News: Dolphins WR Wes Welker hauled in his first career touchdown catch when he found an opening in the end zone where he snagged a 6-yarder from Joey Harrington in at the start of the third quarter, giving the Dolphins a 21-10 lead. "I'm going to hang onto that one and put it on the shelf," said Welker, whose only other career touchdown came on a 95-yard kick return in 2004. Welker also had two catches for 14 yards.
Analysis: Welker should only be used in deep leagues. The Dolphins play Kansas City in Week 10, and Welker should not be started.
News: Dolphins WR Wes Welker had two catches for 14 yards and a touchdown against Chicago.
Analysis: Welker has been a good backup WR and continues to make plays. He should only be started in deep leagues, and the Dolphins play Kansas City in Week 10.
News: Dolphins WR Wes Welker had six catches for 38 yards against Green Bay.
Analysis: Welker remains a good No. 3 WR in leagues where receptions count. The Dolphins have a bye in Week 8 and Welker has a difficult matchup in Week 9 against Chicago.
News: Dolphins WR Wes Welker (calf) is questionable for Week 7 vs. Green Bay. He did not practice with the team on Wednesday.
Analysis: Welker has eclisped the 30 reception, 300-yard mark and we bet no one expected that from him by Week 6. Welker has yet to get a touchdown this season, but he might be worth a roster spot because he does rack up some decent yards. Consider using him, if healthy, in Week 7 as the Packers come to town to play the Dolphins.
News: WR Wes Welker had six receptions for 56 yards in Week 6 as the Dolphins lost 20-17 to the Jets.
Analysis: Welker has eclisped the 30 reception, 300-yard mark and we bet no one expected that from him by Week 6. Welker has yet to get a touchdown this season, but he might be worth a roster spot because he does rack up some decent yards. Consider using him in Week 7 as the Packers come to town to play the Dolphins.
News: Dolphins WR Marty Booker suffered a pectoral/shoulder injury in the first quarter of Sunday's 20-10 loss to New England and couldn't continue. Booker underwent an MRI Monday. Coach Nick Saban said he's questionable. Booker didn't seem optimistic after the game. "I'm old," said Booker, 30. "My body doesn't respond well to injures like it used to." Wes Welker would be promoted to No. 2 receiver if Booker is unable to play.
Analysis: Welker has already outproduced Booker, so moving up to the No. 2 WR is an overdue promotion. Still, teams could start to defend against Welker and his early season production could diminish. Welker might be worth picking up in deep leagues.
News: Dolphins WR Wes Welker continues to be a focal point of the offense for Miami. He had nine catches for 77 yards against New England in Week 5.
Analysis: Welker might be worth picking up in deep leagues. He continues to rack up catches and is clearly better than Miami's No. 2 WR, Marty Booker.
News: Dolphins WR Wes Welker caught four passes for 55 yards in a 17-15 Week 4 loss to the Texans.
Analysis: Welker has developed pretty good on-the-field rapport with QB Daunte Culpepper. He is always near the top of the receiving yards leader on the team and could continue to do that on a weekly basis. For now though, he is still a No. 4 or 'flex' WR option in the deepest of leagues.
News: Following his five-catch, 59-yard day vs. Tennessee in Week 3, Dolphins WR Wes Welker was willing to concede to the Miami Herald that he's been uncovered for the most part with defenses opting to cover Chris Chambers and Marty Booker. Welker leads the Dolphins in receptions this season with 14. "It's just one of those deals where teams are paying a lot of attention to Marty and Chris," said Welker. "I don't know if they really respect me that much. It opens me up more. So as teams start to factor me into the mix, that will just open up Chris and Marty that much more as the season goes on."
Analysis: Is Welker a legit Fantasy receiver? Depends on how many receivers you can start and how much roster space you have. Eventually, opponents will account for Welker and he'll be limited, but for now if you need a bye-week replacement at No. 3 or 4 WR, go with Welker, especially at Houston in Week 4.
News: Dolphins WR Wes Welker had five catches for 59 yards against the Titans. He also had two kickoff returns for 21 yards and two punt returns for 1 yard and fumbled once on a return.
Analysis: Welker is not a recommended starter in most Fantasy leagues, but he is making plays when given the chance. Keep an eye on Welker, but keep him reserved for now.
News: Miami WR Wes Welker had five catches for 41 yards against Buffalo.
Analysis: This is the second game in a row Welker had more catches and yards than Marty Booker. Still, Welker is not worth owning in Fantasy leagues.
News: Rumored to be facing the Turk's ax early in training camp, Dolphins return man/receiver Wes Welker was named special teams player of the game by Saban after returning kicks for a combined 153 yards, including a 47-yard punt return -- his second longest. Welker also tied a career high with four catches for 67 yards.
Analysis: Welker posted solid numbers in the opener, but he is only recommended as a No. 5 or 6 Fantasy receiver in leagues of 12 or more teams for Week 2 against Buffalo.
News: Welker had four receptions for 67 yards in Thursday's regular season opener at Pittsburgh, as he filled in admirably for Marty Booker who had to depart briefly due to a head injury.
Analysis: Welker posted solid numbers in the opener, but he is not only recommended as a No. 5 or 6 Fantasy receiver in leagues of 12 or more teams for Week 2 against Buffalo.
News: The Miami Herald reports Kelly Campbell, Wes Welker and rookie Derek Hagan will all compete for the third spot on the Dolphins' depth chart.
Analysis: Campbell has a rapport with Daunte Culpepper from their time in Minnesota, but Hagan has the greatest upside. Welker will warrant no real consideration in drafts.
News: The Miami Herald reports that WR West Welker is recovering from offseason surgery on his left foot and is in a cast. He had surgery two weeks ago to clean out loose bodies in his ankle.
Analysis: He's expected to be ready for training camp. The Dolphins' No. 3 receiver and special teams ace isn't expected to be drafted in Fantasy Football leagues.
News: Miami WR Wes Welker, a special-teams player, finished fourth on the team in receiving yards with 434 and also had five-yard rush in 2005. He did not score a touchdown this season.
Analysis: Welker's numbers should improve if he stays as a slot WR in Miami, but he still won't warrant Fantasy consideration.
News: WR Wes Welker (quadriceps) was limited in Wednesday's practice for a second consecutive day and remains listed as questionable on Miami's injury report for the Tennessee game. Welker was initially injured December 11 against San Diego but played last Sunday against the Jets.
Analysis: Welker shouldn't be on a Fantasy roster.
News: Miami WR Wes Welker started for Miami and had a 16-yard catch at Oakland in Week 12.
Analysis: Welker may have cracked Miami's starting lineup, but he is not a recommended option in Fantasy leagues.
News: Miami WR Wes Welker caught two passes for 61 yards vs. New England in Week 10.
Analysis: Welker is still too unrelaible to start in Fantasy leagues.
News: Wes Welker made an impact both in the return game and on offense in a Week 7 loss to the Chiefs, catching two passes for 41 yards while returning a punt for 47 yards.
Analysis: Welker is not a solid Fantasy option for Week 8 when the Dolphins take on the Saints.
News: Miami WR Wes Welker had two catches for 41 yards vs. Kansas City in Week 7.
Analysis: Welker was surprisingly in on a lot of plays and settled in on the slot. He's still too unrelaible to start in Fantasy leagues, though.
News: Miami WR Wes Welker led the team in receiving yards with 97 on three catches.
Analysis: Welker's participation in the offense is hit or miss. Do not rely on him to be a Fantasy receiver for your team.
News: Welker (toe) was able to play in Week 8 at N.Y. Jets. He had two punt returns for nine yards. He also had six kickoff returns for 117 yards.
Analysis: Welker is more known for his prowess as a kick returner and not as a receiver.
News: Dolphins reserve receiver and kick returner Wes Welker (toe) is probable for Week 8 at the New York Jets.
Analysis: Welker has no Fantasy value as a receiver.
News: Dolphins reserve receiver and kick returner Wes Welker (toe) is probable for Week 7 against St. Louis.
Analysis: Welker has no Fantasy value as a receiver.
News: Kick returner and reserve receiver Wes Welker was pressed into action as an emergency kicker for the Dolphins in Week 5 at New England when Olindo Mare couldn't play with a calf injury.
Analysis: Welker did a fine job, making a 29-yard field goal and nailing his only extra point. However, if Mare can't play in Week 6 the Dolphins will clearly get someone more qualified to handle the kicking. The Miami Dolphins travel to Buffalo in Week 6.
News: After releasing Lamont Brightful, Miami signed rookie Wes Welker to handle their return duties.
Analysis: Welker was released by the Chargers after averaging 25 yards on four kickoffs in Week 1. He has no Fantasy value. The Dolphins play the Steelers in Week 3.
