NFL

Wesley Carter “Wes” Welker is one of only two players in NFL history to convert a field goal and an extra point, record a tackle, field a punt and kickoff return all in the same game. Welker, who stands 5’8 ¾’’ and weights 185 lbs. soaking wet, shouldn’t be known for his diversity on the field, but instead for having the heart and desire to succeed in sport dominated by giants and Olympic quality athletes.

The man nicknamed “The Natural” by his high school teammates found early life in the NFL to be difficult. In 2004, Welker ran a turtle-like 4.65 forty-yard dash at the Texas Tech pro day and subsequently went undrafted. Although he made the San Diego Chargers final roster, Welker was cut after week one and eventually signed with the Miami Dolphins.

After signing with the Dolphins, Welker found his niche in the NFL. During the 2005 season, Welker was promoted to the third wide receiver spot and finished the season with 29 receptions, for 434 yards and not touchdowns. Most importantly, Welker and the Dolphins organization learned that he could have success catching short, underneath passes while the faster wide receivers stretched the field with longer routes. In 2006, Welker built on his success and netted a team-best 67 receptions for 687 yards and one score. He also continued to build his reputation as a solid return man and finished the season with 48 kickoffs for 1,048 yards (22.2 average) and 41 punts for 378 yards (9.2 average).

After being offered a second-round tender that would have paid him $1.35 million, the New England Patriots decided to trade their 2007 second and seventh-round draft picks for Welker. The trade immediately paid dividends as Welker broker the Patriots single season reception record with 112 and finished the season with 1,175 receiving yards. Welker continued his stellar play in 2008, finishing the year with 111 receptions for 1165 yards and three touchdowns. Welker was selected to attend the 2009 Pro Bowl as a reserve and received his second consecutive AP All-Pro Second Team designation.