As if anyone needed to point this out, but Wes Welker is a supernatural athlete. There just isn't a player in football that can be cleared for practice just seventh months after undergoing re-constructive knee and torn rotator cuff surgery.
Except for Wes Welker of course. At his press conference today, Patriots' Director of Pro Personnel Nick Caserio announced that Welker had passed his physical, had been removed from the Active/PUP list, and would be returning to practice, effective immediately. Caserio also had this to say:
"Every player has to go at their own pace. But Wes is a unique guy, there's no question about it. He realizes he has to go out there and prove himself once again regardless of what's happened in the past, just like any player, it's a tribute to him, and his work ethic and his toughness that he's back out on the field. We'll see how it goes."
It's really unbelievable that Welker is already back. I still think they will hold him back in the preseason. I certainly don't think he will play in the preseason opening next Thursday against the Saints. Still, all indications are that the Pats will let Welker loose, and he should be ready to go for the Cincinnati game on September 12th.