Wes Welker isn’t letting age get in the way of his performance.
The 33-year-old Denver Broncos wide receiver pushed through an intense workout regimen this offseason as he geared up for his 11th NFL season. Welker is using his age as a motivational tool.
“I love it when they say I can’t do it, that I am too old,” Welker told The Denver Post’s Troy E. Renck on Monday. “It’s something that motivates me, another challenge. It’s been one thing after another to overcome. Now it’s being old. Yeah, I love it.”
Welker certainly wasn’t loving it after the Broncos’ crushing 43-8 loss to the Seattle Seahawks in Super Bowl XLVIII. Afterward, the former New England Patriots receiver focused on gaining an extra edge with his speed. That meant less weightlifting and more agility training.
“That first step is everything,” Welker said. “When I have that, my confidence is high. I know that guy across from me is in trouble.”
According to Renck, Welker’s training has paid off, as the 5-foot-9 receiver has lost 15 pounds since his final college season and supposedly is running faster now than he did as an NFL rookie.
Welker also is focused on longevity and added that he’ll keep playing as long as his health permits him.
“I love playing,” Welker said. “For me, it’s all about my health. If I feel good, I will keep on playing.”
Photo via USA Today Sports Images
