The Patriots wide receiver, who finished 2009 second in the league in receptions after tearing his ACL and MCL in the first quarter of Sunday’s finale against the Texans, posted a statement on his Web site about his disappointment over missing the playoffs.
Welker admitted that it will take time for him to regain his form and his status as one of the elite receivers in the NFL, but he wrote that he will dedicate himself fully to returning to the Patriots as soon as he is able.
The statement is as follows:
Dear Friends, Fans, and Family,
I am writing you today to let you know how thankful I am for everyone’s support through this trying time. Your phone calls, texts, emails and letters are greatly appreciated. I thank God for the people that He has put in my life to help me overcome this obstacle that has been placed in front of me. Your thoughts and prayers are truly felt and will help me to a speedy recovery.
My good friend Tedy Bruschi said to me the other day, “There is no career without a comeback.” Although I know that it will take time to be the same player that I once was, I am ready to face that challenge, and in time, I plan on coming back the player I was and much more. This is not the first time that I have faced adversity in my career, and it won’t be the last. I am committed to this football team and doing everything possible to make us better. My teammates know my commitment to them, and I refuse to let them down. Just how I know that they wouldn’t let me down. They are here for me, just like I am there for them. Even though I won’t be on the field this postseason, my heart will be with them through every snap!
I will continue to keep everyone informed on my status, and I thank you again for all of your thoughts and prayers.
God Bless,
Wes
