Again, you're not understanding what I've been saying. Welker's a slot receiver yes..who's lining up more than he should be as a split end. Welker hasn't got the frame or speed to play split end, yet he lines out wide for much of the game matched up on bigger, more physical corners.
When we play aggressive and better defenses, this hurts us.
Now when you talk about replacing his production you look at who lines up in the slot and can the production over the middle be replaced or sustained? Well we have Gronkowski, Hernandez (and I do think Edelman could do a job for us when asked).....if you resign Branch as your veteran with experience and bring in a player that is a more legit down the field threat, then I think our offense would be absolutely fine.
The team's issue is all we have is the middle of the field! In that way, Welker's inability to go wide and play as a traditional split end isn't highlighted enough.
Randy Moss was one of the all time greats yet he could never do what Welker does. The issue isn't getting rid of Welker it is adding a downfield WR. they need both and getting rid of one just makes them worse. No other receiver can get open as quickly as Welker does, and that includes the great TE's, who we also need. Welker saves Brady from taking a beating by getting open instantly, and you guys simply don't understand how important that is, and you flat out refuse to acknowledge how good he is and keep insisting he can be replaced, it is ignorant.