Even New England Patriots wide receiver Wes Welker needs a second take when looking at the numbers he’s put up so far this season.
Through five games, Welker, the NFL’s unofficial Model Slot Receiver, has made 45 receptions (most in the league) for 740 yards (most in the league), 33 first downs (most in the league) and 13 receptions of 20 yards or more (tied for most in the league).
"I don't think you can really look at them (the numbers) and not think ‘this is a little bit crazy,’” Welker told the Dallas media via conference call Wednesday. “But at the same time I try not to really think about it. Just try to get open and catch the ball and play for my team."
Welker was later asked if he would be the same receiver without Patriots quarterback Tom Brady throwing him passes.
"No. There's no question,” Welker said. “There's no way I would. I think in my time in Miami I went through four or five quarterbacks and didn't play as much. Being here, with Tom, in this offense, I am not going to sit here and say I'd have the same numbers. No way."
In three seasons with the Miami Dolphins, Welker recorded 96 receptions for 1121 yards and three touchdowns.
Since joining the Patriots in 2007, Welker has had at least 1,000 yards per season every year besides 2010, when he was 152 yards short. He's caught 27 touchdowns with New England.
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