Bill Belichick isn't a "timetable" guy. Ask him about a player's injury status and his stock answer is that the player is "day to day". So I thought his comments regarding receiver Wes Welker on "Patriots All-Access" were notable. "He's on schedule," Belichick told fill-in host Scott Zolak. "Hopefully with no setbacks, he'll have an opportunity to get out there and compete at some point this year."
Even though Welker's presence on the practice field for individual drills has been impressive, I think it's an optimistic timeline to think that he could be ready for the season opener Sept. 12 against the Cincinnati Bengals. If I had to make an educated guess, Welker will open training camp on the physically unable to perform list, and will remain there through at least the first six weeks of the regular season.
It's just Mike Reiss' opinion but it makes sense. Despite the progress Welker seems to be making, it's a tough injury to overcome. Welker will obviously fall in your rankings if he's on the PUP list, but knowing where to take him will be key. It's not a given he comes back 100%, however, he's always been a top target so he could be helpful in PPR leagues at least.
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