What does Aaron Hernandez's deal mean for Welker?

It's been reported this morning that Aaron Hernandez has signed an extension that will keep him in New England until at least 2018, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter.

Earlier this offseason, the Patriots locked up Rob Gronkowski to a six year deal, so they've now ensured that their young core of tight ends have been secured. However, how about the wide receiver that's topped the league in catches nearly every year since joining the Patriots?

ESPN.com

Hernandez's deal casts further doubt on the long-term status of Welker.

The receiver signed a $9.5 million franchise tender in May. Last month, he arrived to training camp saying it was great to be back and that he was not disappointed from not locking up a long-term deal.

I think this could both be a good or bad sign for Wes Welker staying with the Patriots.

First, it's obvious that the Patriots priority, as far as contracts go, was to wrap up their top young talent. In the past year we've seen Jerod Mayo, Rob Gronkowski, Aaron Hernandez and Kyle Love all get extensions. At this point, the Patriots have a good idea of the kind of money they will be shelling out over the next 5 years or so. So, they may be more willing to negotiate with Welker, since they now know that Welker's contract won't interfere with getting the aforementioned players signed.

On the other side, they've given out a lot of money and years to their young players. The Patriots track record of extending older veteran receivers isn't exactly great. See: Randy Moss and Deion Branch. Given the fact that Julian Edelman keeps sticking around, the Patriots must figure they have a capable slot backup in him. Welker is also looking for Larry Fitzgerald type money, something the Patriots have not wanted to give out to a slot receiver.

This could be good or bad on the Welker front, depending on how you look at it.