It's been a tough first quarter, with Patriots wide receiver Wes Welker getting drilled by Jets safety Eric Smith on a 3rd-and-9 play where he was coming accross and Smith leveled him, striking him in the head with his helmet and forearm and forced him out of the game. The play caused a 15-yard penalty in favor of New England, but for now has Welker on the sidelines.
Welker was seen with trainers on the sidelines going through tests, and later was back on his feet and appeared ready to come back in the game. He came into the huddle to start the 2nd quarter, but came out in favor of Julian Edelman and is still on the sidelines.
Prior to him leaving the field Smith tried to come over to say something, but Welker didn't go over and shake his hand. One would have to believe a fine is coming after that play, as Welker was completely defenseless and the new rule prevents that type of hit.
Welker later came back in to beat Antonio Cromartie for a 6-yard touchdown to put New England up 7-0 with 13:22 left in the 2nd quarter.
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