Julian Edelman Reportedly Signs 1-Year Deal to Stay with New England Patriots

New England Patriots wide receiver Julian Edelman reportedly signed a one-year contract Wednesday to remain in Foxboro.

CBS Sports' Jason La Canfora broke the news:

Edelman caught 21 passes for 235 yards and a career-high three touchdowns in 2012, and has also scored a touchdown on punt returns in each of the past three seasons.  

The receiver position has been in flux for the Patriots this offseason. Since the departure of Wes Welker, New England has signed Michael Jenkins, Donald Jones and, most notably, Danny Amendola. The team also signed Emmanuel Sanders' offer sheet Wednesday, according to USA Today's Mike Garafolo.

Entering what will be his fifth year in one of the most stable organizations in the NFL and professional sports, Edelman will be the only contributing incumbent at his position.

Due to the Pats’ newly acquired depth, there may not be as much of a role in the passing game for Edelman. However, he should see plenty of action on special teams, especially if Bill Belichick wants to protect Amendola in those situations.

Edelman and Amendola have similar playing styles and skill sets as viable slot options, with Amendola definitely being superior. However, both also have had durability issues, and Edelman could be being kept as insurance in the event that Amendola goes down with an injury.

What is certain is that Edelman embodies the "Patriot Way," and is a versatile player that will line up anywhere he's asked.

The former seventh-round pick out of Kent State played quarterback in college, and the football IQ he developed there helped him convert to receiver at the next level.

Even without a full season of consistent production, the Patriots see enough in Edelman to lock him up for one more year.