Wilfork Decision a Major One for Belichick

Today soon-to-be Free Agent Vince Wilfork went on WEEI in Boston and said, in a 320-pund nutshell, that he wants a long term deal or he wants to be free to seek one elsewhere. The Patriots informed their free agents that they would contact them in early February so the fact that Wilfork hasn't been contacted yet should not be a red flag.

However Patriots fans are well versed in situations like these. Bill Belichick always does what is best for the Patriots, and in his 10 seasons with the team the Wilfork situation could be the most intriguing decision Belichick has had to make.

On paper it seems like a long term contract for Wilfork should be a no brainer. Wilfork was originally saddled with a six year deal that many would say he outperformed. He never held out, never made a scene or became a distraction. he was the consummate professional through all six years of his deal.

This isn't like the past when Patriots fans knew many of the departures of their favorite Super Bowl winning players was due to age. It hurt to see Adam Vinatieri leave, but ultimately Stephen Gostkowski proved that it was the right decision. Same with Willie McGinest and ultimately Mike Vrabel.

Asante Samuel wanted more money that the Pats were willing to pay a cornerback. At the time it was believed that lineman and quarterback were where the money had to be spent.

So now we have Vince Wilfork, a nose tackle who is the centerpiece of Belichick's 3-4 defense in the prime of his career, on the verge of free agency. Both the Dolphins and Jets could be in the market for a player like Wilfork, and the Pats are already paper thin on the defensive line.

On paper it seems like signing Wilfork is a must. But as we all know what we think and what Bill Belichick thinks are not always one and the same. Not re-signing Wilfork could have adverse effects on current players who already might be on the fence buying into the Patriot Way. I think it's safe to say in any work environment employees want to feel appreciated and that they will be rewarded for hard work.

Wilfork said this morning he would view the Franchise Tag as a "slap in the face", but we know Coach Belichick will use any and every advantage the team has in negotiations.

Once again it will be an interesting off-season for the Patriots, and there will most definitely be a statement on where this team is going and who will lead them there.