"Receiver Wes Welker will return to New England this morning for his annual football camp at Bishop Fenwick in Peabody.

He's hoping to take part in another type of camp with his Patriots teammates sometime soon.

"I think we kind of talked about it. But we have nothing set in stone or anything," Welker told the Herald when asked if players were planning to get together for a passing camp or workouts as the lockout continues. "So we're just playing it by ear, and hopefully we get something done where we all come together and we don't have to plan out a place to go or anything like that. We can just go to the stadium and get our work in.

"But I think we're trying to figure everything out and get everybody's schedules together and try to make something happen. But nothing has been set yet."

Welker recognizes the importance of uniting with his teammates.

"I think it gives you a good idea of where you're at, for sure," he said. "Just being able to see the guys and work together and get on the same page. It's a big thing. You want to try to get that competitive advantage.""