Don't think Phillips was denigrating Welker.
Comparing him to traditional WR's is missing the point
Welker almost doesn't play the traditional WR role. He IS, the player who defined the modern slot receiver. If he plays 5 more years, he would project to be #2 in NFL career receptions and top 15 in yards.
When you look at Welker his TPC is ~ 2 less than an elite traditional WR like A Johnson or other HOF type WR.
If Welker maintains his performance level for another few years he should get in the HOF.
Welker BTW is a big reason why it is very hard to blitz Brady. He does a great job reading the D pre snap and get to the right spot.
BTW the 3 cone drill time is probably more valuable to a slot receiver than the 40 time....
