6:10 p.m.: Welker’s introduction to the Denver area is finished, but that doesn’t mean that the questions about his Patriots career will subside anytime soon.
Welker had as good a career in New England as any receiver in the history of the franchise and one of the greatest six-year stretches in the history of the league. So, news about his past endeavors will surely be a topic throughout training camp and into the new year. Oh, and don’t forget about the Patriots regular-season game with the Broncos set for next season — date is still to be determined.
Beyond Welker’s comments during the news conference, if you want to take a look at a preview of what Welker will look like for the next few seasons here is a photo.
Photo via Twitter/ByLindsayJones
5:58 p.m.: I’m sure Welker is glad that no one had any Danny Amendola related questions for him during that quick media session, but I am surprised no one at least offered up a chance to offer his two cents or even praise his fellow Red Raider.
One thing you can bet on in the coming year is that Welker will become a more loose and open guy in the media. He was known as something of a prankster and joker during his days at Texas Tech and even in Miami. But Belichick forced him to tone it down considerably during his six seasons with the Patriots.
It will be nice to fun Wes come out more often than the occasional glimpse we got in Foxboro.
5:52 p.m.: That presser was certainly short lived, lasting a little less than 15 minutes on the whole.
There’s no set time for these sorts of things, but I’m sure there were a lot more questions to be asked if he stuck around a little longer.
On the whole, Welker did seem pretty grateful for Patriots fans and his time in New England and even let on a little that leaving wasn’t his first choice. Very well handled.
You’ve got to appreciate a guy with that much humility and respect. He really stayed his ground and made sure not to step on any toes on his way out, even with the clear issues between he and the front office.
5:47 p.m.: Speaking specifically on Belichick, Welker let on no real hard feelings about the situation.
He said that when leaving “everything was on good terms” with the head coach. Take that as you will, and for what it’s worth at an opening presser.
5:42 p.m.: He hasn’t specifically mentioned Bill Belichick or Robert Kraft at all yet, which isn’t all that unusual for these news conferences but definitely an interesting piece to this drama.
As for making such a tough decision, Welker credited “wanting to win” for the move the Denver.
5:40 p.m.: He’s all smiles at the podium in Denver, but Welker did say the hardest part about leaving New England was “leaving Tom [Brady].”
The two have been great friends for so many years, so it’s got to be a difficult situation moving to a rival.
5:38 p.m.: Welker thanks New England for all the opportunities, but seems focused on turning his attention to the future with the Broncos.
5:36 p.m.: John Elways approaches the podium and immediately opens with “we’re proud that he’s a Denver Bronco.”
This should get fun real quick.
5:34 p.m.: The media are patiently waiting on Welker, Elway and the rest of the Broncos staff to pop through those doors and get this thing underway.
It will be interesting to see if Welker actually addresses much about his time in New England or goes into depth about the bitter days leading up his departure.
There are some local reporters in the house, so we’ll leave it on them to make sure the right questions are asked and Welker can address just what happened.
5:20 p.m.: We’re mere minutes away from Welker being introduced out in the Mile High City. In the meantime, we’ve got some updates on Welker’s contract with the Broncos for you.
The original two years and $12 million is correct, but if you’re a nerd like me then maybe you want it broken down.
He’ll receiver a $4 million signing bonus and his base salary will be $2 million this season. As for 2014, Welker will receive a $3 million roster bonus and will make $3 million in base salary, according to Jeff Howe of the Boston Herald.
This isn’t the most shocking or desirable info — I know — but people tend to like seeing exactly how the contract breaks down and it piqued my interest. So there.
Anyhow, back to the matter at hand. We’re still awaiting Welker making his way to the podium.
5 p.m.: Wes Welker’s departure has left Patriots fans almost everywhere shocked and disheartened for the future of the team. Even so, Welker is already moving on with his football career and the Broncos are set to introduce their new wideout within the next hour.
Welker has already arrived in Denver, rocking a snazzy purple button up and some shades. He seems ready to take on the challenge of joining a new team and the benefits of playing with one of the other best quarterbacks in NFL history Peyton Manning.
Speaking of legenedary quarterbacks, guess who greeted Welker at the door? Yup, that’s John Elway meeting Welker for the first time, while sporting an odd pink shirt, maroon slacks combo — now, I’m beginning to sound like the fashion police.
All the action begins promptly at 5:30 p.m., and we’ll have the highlights for you throughout the duration of the presser. So, keep it locked here for everything you need to know.
Oh yeah, and check out the photos of Welker entering the premises and meeting with Elway below.
Photos via Twitter/@Denver Broncos
