Wes Welker Fires Back at Former Teammate Willie McGinest's Criticism

There's trouble brewing between former New England Patriots linebacker Willie McGinest and current Patriots wide receiver Wes Welker.

If you're just now joining us, McGinest ran his mouth about Welker on the NFL Network, accusing Welker of having a "diva attitude" and that he needs to "get off the party tour and get back to work.”

McGinest's outburst was in response to Welker's statement (see ESPNBoston.com) on Tuesday that he's "probably not" going to attend New England's mandatory minicamp in June. The Patriots used their franchise tag on Welker earlier this offseason, but he wants a long-term deal.

So what does Welker have to say in response to McGinest's little rant?

Well, he put this out on Twitter:

"

@williemcginest why did u ever leave the Pats and play for the Browns?

— Wes Welker (@WesWelker) April 25, 2012"

Oh snap! Fighting words!

This seems to be a direct response to a particular part of McGinest's NFL Network rant. This part, to be precise:

"

Let's keep it real. Prior to the Patriots, this is a guy who played three years, had 96 receptions, never had a 1,000-yard season.

"

In other words, McGinest was saying that the only reason Welker is in line to make big bucks is because he's benefited from New England's offensive system. He should be real and accept what they're willing to pay him.

And that brings us back to Welker's tweet. McGinest was released by the Patriots in 2006. Instead of re-signing with the team with a more cap-friendly deal, he bolted to Cleveland to play for a lousy Browns team.

Instead of getting back to work, McGinest went for the money. At least, that's what Welker seems to be implying.

McGinest responded to Welker with this tweet:

"

@WesWelker My point exactly. We're all expendable at Patriot Place

— Willie McGinest (@WillieMcGinest) April 25, 2012"

Interesting. Instead of firing shots at Welker, McGinest is now firing shots at the Patriots.

So whose side are you on, Willie: Welker's or the Patriots'?

It's hard to tell, and that doesn't reflect well on McGinest.

This round goes to Welker. There will be a one-minute break before Round 2.