Will Wes Welker's Unhappiness Hurt Patriots Super Bowl Chances?

Wes Welker isn't exactly thrilled that he'll likely be playing as the New England Patriots franchise player, but don't expect it to interfere with his play in 2012. 

The crafty slot receiver has been the most consistently terrorizing pass-catching option in the NFL since joining Tom Brady in 2007. 

He led the league in receptions in his first year with the Pats and also had the most regular season catches in 2009 and 2011. 

As reported by Greg Bedard of the Boston Globe, Welker signed his franchise tender on May 15, and is set to make $9.5 million this season if a long-term deal isn't agreed upon by July 16th. 

Sure, like the rest of the franchise players out there, he'd be much more satisfied with the financial security that comes with a multi-year extension—that's obvious. 

But when it's time to play football, Welker's level of unhappiness won't be discernible. He's a central aspect on one of the most prolific offenses in NFL history, getting passes thrown to him by one of the best quarterbacks in NFL history on a Super Bowl-caliber team. 

The "Patriot Way" has never allowed disgruntled players to stand in the way of title contention—don't expect that to start this season. 

Welker's a consummate professional and remember, he's still making more than $9 million in 2012.

Like every other individual within the New England organization, Welker's set on winning a Super Bowl. He won't let his somewhat uncertain future hinder the task at hand or impede his vital production within the Patriots dynamic offense. 

As has become customary every year, he'll be a reliable target for Brady and the Patriots will be among the NFL's elite. 

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