Wes Welker's agents have said that the New England Patriots were not prepared to negotiate over a contract for the wide receiver.
The 31-year-old signed for the Denver Broncos last week after failing to reach a deal with New England, where he had spent the previous six seasons playing.
In a statement to NFL.com, Athletes First said: "The Patriots made one offer to Wes Welker since the prior negotiations ended in July 2012. Both sides also agree that this two-year offer came just hours before the start of free agency despite discussions that began at the NFL Combine.
"When we asked if there was room for structural changes, we were told no. We made a counter-offer for the same term and same maximum dollar amount as their offer and it was rejected. We inquired if any of the offer's components were negotiable and were told no.
Nevertheless, when we received the Denver Broncos' offer, Wes personally talked to [Patriots owner Robert Kraft] to give the Patriots the opportunity to match it. The Patriots rejected this opportunity and Wes signed with the Denver Broncos."
Kraft has said that Welker's agents misrepresented his market value.
Sian Cowper
