"Sitting in an airport in San Francisco en route to Hawaii for the Pro Bowl in February, Wes Welker told the Herald he didn't feel his play in 2010 warranted discussion of a new contract from the Patriots.

Think that view might have changed?

Five games into the 2011 season, Hall of Famer Michael Irvin called Welker the best receiver in the league. Forget big-time wideouts Andre Johnson, Calvin Johnson and Larry Fitzgerald, Irvin said the little slot guy Welker trumps them all.

Why else would the Jets pay him the ultimate respect and have the game's premier shutdown cornerback, Darrelle Revis, cover him Sunday?"