When the New England Patriots brought back Josh McDaniels as their offensive coordinator last season, it seemed like a foregone conclusion that receiver Brandon Lloyd would not be far behind. Lloyd has had success in McDaniels’ offensive systems and seems to follow him wherever he goes, but the pair could finally split in 2013.
According to Greg Bedard of the Boston Globe, it is unlikely that the Patriots will pick up Lloyd’s $3 million option to keep him with the team next season. While he was fairly productive with 74 catches, 911 yards and four touchdowns in 2012, there are apparently whispers that Lloyd’s lack of effort irritated the team.
A league and team source reportedly told Bedard that Lloyd’s “erratic behavior on the practice field and in the locker room” frustrated the Patriots’ coaching staff. It was obvious on several occasions that Lloyd and Tom Brady were not able to establish a great deal of chemistry, but this is the first we have heard of his behavior being an issue.
Many believe New England will sign Wes Welker to an extension now that the team has restructured Brady’s contract and gained salary cap flexibility. If Welker re-signs, that makes Lloyd more expendable. It also gives the Patriots some extra cash to explore options at receiver via free agency or trade. Adding a big-play receiver on the outside to join Welker, Aaron Hernandez and Rob Gronkowski could do wonders for New England’s already potent offense.
H/T Pro Football Talk
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