New England Patriots News Brief: Wes Welker Calls the Shots

• Patriots' wide receiver Wes Welker, one of the most dangerous weapons on the Patriots' offense, was recently asked about the loss of Asante Samuel, one of the most dangerous defensive weapons in the NFL. “Asante's a great player,” he started. “So it hurts not to have a guy like that. But then again, it's part of the business of the game. He chose money over championships, and that’s the way it goes sometimes." Samuel signed a six-year, $57 million contract only minutes after the free-agency period began. It will be interesting to see how the two teams matchup, though they only meet in the preseason. Samuel will certainly have his hands full if he is expected to cover Randy Moss or Wes Welker. In fact, Samuel’s short stature could render him useless up against the likes of Moss.
• Patriots' defensive back and special-teams player Willie Andrews is in trouble once again, apparently taking his “gunner” role on the team too seriously. He was arrested on Saturday morning for assault by means of a dangerous weapon and unlawful possession of a firearm after reportedly pointing a .45-caliber gun at his girlfriend’s temple during an argument. The Patriots issued a statement following the arrest: “The New England Patriots take the conduct of our players very seriously. We are aware of the very disturbing and alarming reports regarding Willie Andrews. We will not offer any additional comment, as is our policy regarding pending legal matters.”  
  

In the days after the Super Bowl, Andrews was arrested for marijuana possession. In that case, he was ordered to pay $1,000 and complete an NFL substance-abuse program. Look for the repercussions to be a bit more severe in this case.

UPDATE: The Patriots have released Willie Andrews.

You're currently logged into Facebook

Do you want to share your Bleacher Report activity on Facebook?