Not Playing Tag

Today was the first day that teams could place the franchise tag on one of their players. I don't think the Pats will use it on Wes Welker, Aqib Talib or Sebastian Vollmer.  Welker would carry a price of $11.4 million which might be too rich for the Pats. I think the team is willing to let him test free agency. I don't expect him to be here next season as some team will overpay for his services.

Vollmer is too much of a risk, considering his history of back problems and other issues. He played well when he was on the field, but getting him there has been a challenge.

I think the team has major concerns about Talib. Although he is a very good cornerback, it's too much money to give a player who has a history of bad workouts in the off-season and too many off the field issues.

The Pats have quite a bit of cap space, but they also have a list of their own free agents to resign. You can't sign everyone. I hate to see Welker go, but I think it will happen.