WR Welker Leaves Patriots, Agrees To Deal With Broncos

March 13, 2013

The Patriots' Wes Welker in a game against the Seattle Seahawks Oct. 14, 2012 (Elaine Thompson/AP)

The Denver Broncos have found a new target for quarterback Peyton Manning, agreeing to a two-year deal with Pro Bowl receiver Wes Welker.

Broncos boss John Elway announced the move through Twitter Wednesday. Said Elway: "Excited to have Wes join the Broncos. His production & toughness will be a great asset!"

Welker, 31, is the premier slot receiver in the NFL. He caught 118 passes for 1,354 yards and six TDs last season, and he's developed quite a rapport with Tom Brady during six years with the Patriots.

According to WBUR's Doug Tribou, Welker caught at least 112 passes in five of the past six seasons. And he's missed just three regular season games in six years with the team.

The Broncos are banking the same kind of relationship can develop between Manning and Welker.

The Patriots will host the Broncos next season.

With reporting by The Associated Press and the WBUR Newsroom

This program aired on March 13, 2013. The audio for this program is not available.

Patriots