Report: Reggie Wayne Open to Playing for Patriots If He Doesn't Return to Indianapolis

Report: Reggie Wayne Open to Playing for Patriots If He Doesn’t Return to Indianapolis

by Ricky Doyle on Sat, Feb 25, 2012 at 6:53PM

Reggie Wayne has spent his entire 11-year career with the Colts, but could the free-agent receiver soon be Foxboro bound?

According to the Boston Herald, the Patriots are on Wayne's radar, and they could be at or near the top of the receiver's list of possible destinations should things not work out with Indianapolis.

This report comes on the heels of former Patriot Willie McGinest revealing that he asked Wayne whether he'd consider playing in New England, to which the veteran wideout responded, "Who wouldn't want to play there?"

In the past, Wayne has also drawn praise from New England head coach Bill Belichick, who in 2009 called Wayne the best receiver the Pats play against.

The 33-year-old receiver had a bit of a down year by his standards in 2011, failing to eclipse the 1,000-yard mark for the first time since 2003. He finished with 75 catches for 960 yards and four touchdowns as the Colts received inconsistent quarterback play in Peyton Manning's absence.

A five-time Pro Bowler, Wayne has had three seasons of more than 100 catches and seven seasons with more than 1,000 yards. He's also extremely durable, having not missed a game in the past nine seasons.

Wayne's a great route runner who's capable of playing in a complex offensive system, so it'd be understandable if the Patriots at least entertain the thought of bringing the longtime Colt to New England. And if they do, it's good for them to know Wayne will be willing to listen.