Julian Edelman Turns Down New England Patriots; Tests Free Agency

January 19, 2014; Denver, CO, USA; New England Patriots wide receiver Julian Edelman (11) runs the ball against the Denver Broncos in the first half of the 2013 AFC Championship football game at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

In breaking news involving the New England Patriots, it appears that in recent minutes wide receiver Julian Edelman has turned down the New England Patriots final offer before the start of free agency, and will now test the free agent market for the second straight year.

The Patriots has been in discussion with Edelman for the last few days, apparently trying quite hard to bring back Tom Brady’s favourite target of 2014, but have fallen short of his expectations. Edelman signed a one year deal last free agency period to remain with the team, and in turn posted career high numbers in the absence of Wes Welker, with 105 receptions, 1056 receiving yards and six touchdowns. He quickly became Brady’s favourite target with Rob Gronkowski missing time and Danny Amendola struggling to groove with his new team, and also missing time.

It would be quite a blow to the Patriots if they lost Julian Edelman, but it is not a done deal that he’s gone for good just yet. He may have turned down the Patriots final offer before the 4 P.M. Free Agency start time, but he will most likely give the Patriots one last shot to retain his services after talking with other teams. The teams that have been linked to him in the recent past few days include the Cleveland Browns and rival Baltimore Ravens. On the Patriots side of things, everything comes down to whether or not Edelman will come back at the right price. Edelman is a valuable player, and knows the playbook well, but it’s not like he’s irreplaceable. The Patriots are very matter of fact when it comes to dealing with free agents, and if Edelman is not willing to come to their level, or at least close, then he will walk into free agency, and the Patriots will move on as well, looking at the likes of Emmanuel Sanders, Hakeem Nicks and Jason Avant.

Make sure to stick around here at Musket Fire for more breaking news involving Julian Edelman, the New England Patriots and other signings from around the NFL during this hectic free agent period.