5 former teammates Tom Brady might throw with during suspension

Jul 28, 2016; Foxboro, MA, USA; New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) throws during training camp at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Winslow Townson-USA TODAY Sports
Jul 28, 2016; Foxboro, MA, USA; New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) throws during training camp at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Winslow Townson-USA TODAY Sports /
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Wes Welker
Nov 29, 2015; Cincinnati, OH, USA; St. Louis Rams wide receiver Wes Welker (19) against the Cincinnati Bengals at Paul Brown Stadium. The Bengals won 31-7. Mandatory Credit: Aaron Doster-USA TODAY Sports /

3. Wes Welker

Years played with Patriots: 2007-2012

Stats with Patriots: 672 receptions, 7,459 yards, 37 touchdowns

Faulk said the other day that he is “almost positive” Welker will play catch with Brady in December. And that would be pretty great, as Welker could simulate the routes ran by Julian Edelman these days, as Edelman stepped into Welker’s old role in the Patriots’ aerial attack. While Welker and the Patriots had a not-so-pleasant split (and us Pats fans won’t ever forget his untimely drop in the second Super Bowl loss to the New York Giants), the fact remains that he was an extremely productive and reliable receiver for the Patriots for six years.

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And it’s not like NFL teams are lining up at Welker’s door for his services. The former Miami Dolphins wideout flamed out in a short stint with the (then St. Louis) Rams last year; his age, head injuries and slowed feet were obvious. Welker is not longer suited for live NFL action, but he could certainly lend Brady a hand next month.

Next: 2. Chad Johnson