New England Patriots - NESN.com
Ranking the top 25 wide receivers in NFL history…
Signed as an undrafted free agent by the San Diego Chargers in 2004 out of Texas Tech, where he set NCAA punt return records, Welker quickly proved his value as a versatile slot receiver despite his 5-foot-9 stature.
After a brief stint with the Chargers and then the Miami Dolphins from 2004 to 2006, where he excelled as a return specialist and caught 96 passes, Welker was traded to the New England Patriots in 2007.
Over six seasons with the Patriots, he became Tom Brady’s go-to target, leading the NFL in receptions three times (2007, 2009, 2011) and setting franchise records with 672 receptions. His standout 2011 campaign featured 122 catches for 1,569 yards and nine touchdowns, earning First-team All-Pro honors.
Welker earned five Pro Bowl nods (2008-2012) and two First-team All-Pro selections during this period, also tying an NFL record with 11 receptions in Super Bowl XLII, though the Patriots lost to the Giants. He appeared in another Super Bowl (XLVI) with New England, again falling short.
Signing with the Denver Broncos in 2013, Welker contributed to a Super Bowl XLVIII appearance, recording 73 receptions for 778 yards and 10 touchdowns that year, but the team was routed by Seattle. A 2014 suspension for violating the NFL’s drug policy limited him, and he finished his career with the St. Louis Rams in 2015, amassing just eight catches.
Welker’s career totals include 903 receptions, 9,924 receiving yards and 50 touchdowns across 159 games, plus 183 punt returns for 1,650 yards. He holds NFL records for most seasons with 105+, 110+ and 115+ receptions and ranks as the most productive undrafted receiver in history.
Welker’s standout attributes were his exceptional quickness, precise route-running and sure hands, allowing him to excel in the slot.
His playing style was that of a shifty, high-volume possession receiver: intelligent, reliable on short and intermediate routes, and adept at finding soft spots in zones.
His legacy endures as a pioneer for undersized receivers.
But who ranks ahead of Welker at No. 24 all-time?
