Among the many intriguing story lines next Sunday night when the Patriots face the Broncos will be the return of Wes Welker to New England. Welker, who spent the seven best seasons of his career with the Patriots from 2007 through 2012, will be heading into Foxboro Stadium as the enemy. But will he be suiting up?
Welker left Sunday’s win over the Kansas City Chiefs with what is being called a concussion. He suffered the injury in the fourth quarter after taking a hit on a 20-yard reception. The 32-year-old appeared a bit dizzy after the play and dropped to one knee. He returned during the drive and secured a 9-yard reception before being removed from the game.
It’s possible that Welker can pass all of the NFL’s concussion tests this week and be cleared to play against New England, but the league is already going to be unhappy with the Broncos for allowing Welker to reenter against the Chiefs. Any player who is believed to have suffered a potential head injury is supposed to pass a concussion test on the sideline before coming back in.
Ironically, the player that replaced Welker in the Patriots’ offense — Danny Amendola — is finally healthy. Welker missed just three games during his seven years with Tom Brady and company. Amendola has already missed more than that in his first season as a Patriot. As long as Welker travels to New England with the team, he should be in for a warm receptions from the home fans.
