Could a concussion knock out a possible return to Foxboro?
Former New England Patriot and current Denver Broncos’ wide receiver Wes Welker, suffered the concussion during the Sunday Night Football game between the previously undefeated Kansas City Chiefs.
“A player feeling normal one day after the game might pass cognitive testing Tuesday and begin a light exercise program, intensify their exercise routine Wednesday, participate in non-contact aspects of practice on Thursday and return to full practice Friday,” NFL.com explains. “But if a player has a history of concussions or isn’t progressing as quickly as planned, the process moves accordingly.”
The timing of this could not have come worse for Welker, who played for the Patriots for six seasons, leaving via free agency to Denver to play with Peyton Manning. This upcoming matchup between Manning and Tom Brady was billed between the two future Hall of Fame quarterbacks, but also for the return of one of New England’s best players in Welker.
Welker, 32, is the Patriots’ franchise leader in receptions with 672, caught in his six seasons with the Patriots from 2007-12. He ranks second in franchise history with 7,459 yards, eighth with 37 touchdowns, and second in 100-yard receiving games with 28.
Fans are looking forward to Welker’s return, hopefully:
@WesWelker I hope u aren't too hurt! Was looking forward to ur return next Sunday 🙁 pic.twitter.com/fVbPXgtJ8N
— April Lind (@AprilLind1978) November 19, 2013
In other news, I wonder what kind of welcoming @WesWelker is gonna get when he comes back to Foxboro next week.
— Shakira (@lovelykirax0) November 19, 2013
In this marque match-up between two teams that will vie for playoff positioning, Welker’s status is critical not just for the reunion, but for the Broncos as well.
