By Charles Greenwald 3-25-2013
The New England Patriots aren’t about to let go of Sebastian Vollmer.
They have already lost one of their best receivers Wes Welker in free agency. So they are not about to let go one of their top offensive tackles.
The Pats have agreed to a deal with Sebastian Vollmer on a new contract. Although the terms of the contract have not been released, Vollmer will stay put for the next four years, according to the Patriots organization.
The right tackle has played in 51 games with the Patriots, starting 44 of them. Last year the 6-foot-8, 314-pound All-Pro started 15 regular season games and both of New England’s playoff games. Health may have been one factor in why Vollmer remained on the free agent market for almost the past two weeks.
It’s been a rocky offseason for the Patriots, who have received a lot of criticism over their handling of the Welker free agency. Welker, who landed with the Denver Broncos, claims that the Patriots offered him a “take it or leave it offer.” However the Patriots have denied that claim and say they tried to negotiate with him.
Aqib Talib, another free agent, was also re-signed this offseason, while quarterback Tom Brady took a modest pay cut.
Last year the Patriots lost the AFC Championship game to the Baltimore Ravens. The Ravens would go on to become the Super Bowl champions.