Broncos wide receiver Wes Welker (83) celebrates after scoring a touchdown during the first half against the Tennessee Titans at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. The Broncos won 51-28. (Chris Humphreys-USA TODAY Sports)
The NFL needs a concussion tracker for active players. We know that Wes Welker has suffered two concussions in the last 22 days, but just how many did he suffer in the eight seasons that he wasn’t a Bronco? Surely, as a small slot receiver he’s suffered more than the average player.
I would predict Aaron Hernandez escaping from prison before I would predict doctors allowing Welker to play in Thursday night’s contest against the Chargers.
When Welker suffered his first concussion against the Chiefs in Kansas City, he didn’t resume practicing until Friday. With a quick turnaround time this week, Welker will undoubtedly remain on the sidelines, right? He should.
Former Broncos receiver Mark Jackson told Benjamin Hochman of the Denver Post that Welker’s concussion on Sunday could have been prevented from the sidelines.
"“Doesn’t Fox or anyone on his staff see that Wes Welker is exhausted? If you see the series before he gets the concussion, he gets the punt and busts (his butt) to get to the sideline on the return. Then they go into the two-minute drill, and when you’re exhausted, your focus is just off, and that sets you up even more for a concussion or a big hit, because you’re not on top of your game.” – Mark Jackson"
Makes sense. One option would be to discontinue allowing Welker to field punts. Another would be to keep him out of first and/or second down plays right after fielding a kick.
Regardless, I’m in favor of Welker sitting out for the rest of the regular season. He’s still got life to live after football, and the Broncos offense is more than capable enough to continue running effectively without him. Not to mention, the Broncos are playing teams with a combined record of 12-27. The job will get done without Welker. Welker has enough experience to know what the playoffs are about. He should use the time to rest his body, but more importantly, he should use the time to allow his brain to recover.
The Wes Welker 40 years from now would be eternally grateful.
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