Thoughts on Patriots' Julian Edelman to IR
December, 4, 2012
12/04/12
5:31
PM ET
By
James Walker | ESPN.com
The New England Patriots made a series of roster moves Tuesday. But the biggest was wide receiver and kick returner Julian Edelman going on injured reserve with a foot injury.
Here are thoughts on New England losing Edelman for the season:
- This is tough luck for Edelman. He was starting to play his best football of the season. Edelman split time as the third receiver this year and was a terror on special teams. He had 21 receptions, three touchdowns and also a 68-yard punt return for a touchdown.
- New England re-signed speedy receiver Donte' Stallworth to add depth to the receiving corps. Stallworth is familiar with the system and should have a quick learning curve. Other receivers like Brandon Lloyd and Wes Welker must take a lion's share of the load.
- Edelman's injury also puts an interesting twist on free agency. Welker is approaching another 100-catch season and is looking to cash in big in free agency with a multi-year contract. Edelman is considered the heir to Welker and a much cheaper alternative. But with Edelman coming off a season-ending injury, would the Patriots change their thinking and pay Welker the big bucks?
James Walker | email
NFL- ESPN AFC East Blogger
- Joined ESPN in 2008
- A Temple graduate and Hyattsville, Md., native who lives in Miami
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James Walker
Walker joined ESPN.com in 2008 after four seasons covering the NFL and NBA for the Columbus (Ohio) Dispatch. He's a Temple graduate and Hyattsville, Md. native who lives in Miami.
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