Wide receiver Wes Welker is reportedly in “serious talks” with the Denver Broncos, ESPN reported Wednesday.
Welker, one of the top unrestricted free agents available, had 118 receptions for 1,354 yards and six touchdowns in 2012 with the New England Patriots. It was his fifth 100-catch season — an NFL record — with the Patriots.
Welker played last season for $9.5 million, the terms applied under the franchise designation, and he and the Patriots reportedly remained far apart in negotiations toward a long-term deal.
The 31-year-old is considered an ideal fit in the Patriots’ offense, but the Broncos offer many of the same perks Welker found in New England.
Denver acquired Peyton Manning in free agency last March and has two promising young receivers, Demaryius Thomas and Eric Decker, to form a potent passing attack that could become lethal by adding Welker as a slot receiver.
Brandon Stokley was the primary No. 3 receiver for the Broncos last season. It’s an essential spot in the Broncos’ no-huddle offense. Stokley caught 45 passes for 544 yards.