Welker extension talks could happen this week

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PALM BEACH -- Wes Welker hasn't made a peep about his future plans since March 5.

That was the day the Patriots franchised him. The wideout tweeted that he was "glad" to be a Patriot in 2012 and indicated he hoped it stretched further than that.

So far, though, that's where it sits. Welker hasn't signed his franchise tender which will pay him about 9.5 million in 2012 and the Patriots -- who have until July 15 to extend him a new deal for 2012 -- haven't moved forward with a new offer.

Sunday at the league meetings, Welker's agent David Dunn said there was nothing new to report.

With Dunn at The Breakers and the Patriots' brass here is well, this is the best chance for the sides to meet face-to-face.

Given the money foisted upon wideouts since the start of free agency, the fact New England gets Welker on a one-year deal for less than 10 million is cost effective.

Welker, of course, would like the security of a multi-year deal and the payout that would come with whatever guaranteed money was included.

The Patriots' multi-year offer last fall was reportedly worth 16 million over two years and guaranteed.

Contract length is not as big a sticking point as total value and amount paid in the first two years.

If Welker is franchised next season as well, he'll make close to 11 million on the tag. The two years at more than 20 million is presumably much closer to what the wideout would be looking for.

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