Had the Patriots chose to re-sign wide receiver Randy Moss back in February, they would have been able to get the entire 2007 gang back together. In March, the team re-signed Donte Stallworth after stints with the Browns, Ravens, and Browns. Now, according to ESPN's Josina Anderson, Jabar Gaffney is reportedly set to return to the New England Patriots, texting Anderson that he is "going to the Patriots" and "planning on signing a deal soon."
This is big news for the Patriots, as Gaffney developed really good chemistry with quarterback Tom Brady during his three year stint with the team between 2006 and 2008, starting with Gaffney developing as a surprise go-to receiver for Brady during the 2006 playoffs. In 2007 and 2008, Gaffney was a very reliable #3 receiver behind Wes Welker and Randy Moss, but the Patriots chose to let him walk when he got a big contract offer from the Broncos in the 2009 offseason.
Now, Gaffney will return to a very crowded New England Patriots receiving corps that includes new additions Brandon Lloyd, Donte Stallworth, and Anthony Gonzalez, as well as 2011 hold-overs such as Wes Welker, Chad Ochocinco, Deion Branch, and Julian Edelman.
In 2011, Gaffney recorded career highs for the Redskins in catches (68), yards (947) and touchdowns (5).
According to Jason LaCanfora, the deal is for two years. We have yet to see the financial numbers, but that likely means that the Patriots view Gaffney playing a role on the team in 2012.