So much for the thought of a holdout by New England Patriots wide receiver Wes Welker.

Welker tweeted  that he has signed his $9.5 million tender offer on Tuesday, adding that he loves the game of football and his teammates.

Welker, who has been angling for a long-term contract with the Patriots, still has until July 16 to reach a deal on an extension. Otherwise, he will play for the tender amount in 2012. By signing the tender offer, Welker is now free to take part in the Patriots' off-season program.

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Terry McCormick covers the Titans for TitanInsider.com