So you'd dump the best DB we have and keep Welker, a reciever that doesn't stretch the field and doesn't have the ability to make a play when it matters most? Are you Welker's brother or something? 

How many SBs have we won with Wes Welker? 0-2

How many did we win with a GOOD defense? 3-0

Talib was what made the defense.  We still weren't great, but we were good enough with him.  A shutdown corner is necessary.  If they decide to let him go because of possible off the field / injury issues, another player like him will need to be signed.

I'd consider letting Welker walk, and not signing another big money receiver.  To continue majorly addressing the defense.  Stack the D with talent.

In response to pcmIV's comment:

In response to TFB12's comment:

It's time to get rid of the system type players and start paying and keeping the ones with true talent.  It's time to cut the Edelmans, Slaters, Chungs and as much as I hate to say it, the Woodheads of this team.  Having them around to do something here and there isn't what is needed.  The Pats need full time, talented players. Get rid of these scheme type players that are only keys to 2 or 3 games.  If they can't be used effective for all the games get rid of them!

There!! That should free up enough money to go out and get some full time, talented players.

Talib hasn't played a full season yet.  Do I like him and the size he brings to the team?  Yes, but can he be depended on?  Doesn't look like it. As for Welker, you don't get rid of the most productive player on your team.  That's just crazy talk!   

I know it's not the main thrust of your point, but you do no cut a team captain and all-pro special teamer who makes like a million dollars.

Get rid of the dead weight.  At one time they tried to turn him into a receiver, he isn't one. He isn't a returner either so what else does he offer?  Nothing!  Don't need a special team only player who doesn't even return punts or kickoffs making a million bucks.  Demps will possibly be the returner next season, make him captain.  

In response to TFB12's comment:

In response to 49Patriots' comment:

So you'd dump the best DB we have and keep Welker, a reciever that doesn't stretch the field and doesn't have the ability to make a play when it matters most? Are you Welker's brother or something? 

How many SBs have we won with Wes Welker? 0-2

How many did we win with a GOOD defense? 3-0

You need someone who can stretch the field and someone who can work the short to middle stuff.  Welker does the short field better then anyone.  Dump Lloyd and pick up someone up who can work the middle to deep field.  Wellker opens up the deep ball and and a deep threat will open up the short to mid field.  Need both!  TE's Gronk and Hernandez are icing on the cake. Need all 3 aspects to be a dynamic passing attack.

The best DB in the world can't help you if he can't stay health for a season.  Talib hasn't yet.  When they needed him most he was on the sidelines. 

so y cant lloyd play in the slot.. thats what he did in denver with josh and in st. louis most of the time. hern is essentially a slot receiver himself. welk is a luxury really. with ballard coming back , i would sign a bowe for the outside, put lloyd in slot with the 2 "TEs" (hern is nominal te) to start the games than rotate lloyd out of there (with bullard) and play hern in the slot for most of the game. for FB, i want tebow type or hooman. he'll be the real odd guy out.

precisely. We have a ton of capable slot type guys. Lloyd, Hern, Edelman, Vereen. All capable. With ballard Playing, it gives us flexibility to move Hern around more. However, if we let Wes walk, I still think we need a big, fast, athletic down the field WR. Otherwise, back where we started and teams can load the box.