Report: Patriots nervous about giving Aqib Talib long-term deal

Patriots corner Aqib Talib walks off the field after losing in the AFC Championship Game. (US Presswire)

When top corner Aqib Talib hobbled off with a thigh injury in the AFC Championship Game, the Patriots' chances took a major hit.

Joe Flacco proceeded to throw three touchdown passes, the Ravens went on to win the Super Bowl, and New England was reminded again of Talib's value.

Now the Pats must decide on a strategy for trying to re-sign Talib, one of the top five free-agent corners.

A source told Comcast SportsNet's Mike Giardi the team is "somewhat reluctant" to offer Talib a multi-year contract because of concerns over his work ethic. Talib, who has a history of off-field problems, “passed on the chance to do extra work at times this year and there are questions as to how he'd handle a long-term deal,” the report states. So, New England would prefer to sign Talib to a one-year “make-good contract.”

Talib, who turns 27 next week, could command $8 million to $10 million annually on the open market in a multi-year deal, according to the report.

The Pats acquired Talib (6-foot-1, 205 pounds) from the Buccaneers for a 2013 fourth-round pick in a deadline deal. New England also received a 2013 seventh-round pick.

Talib made an immediate impact. After giving up an average of 285.3 yards, a 66.1 completion percentage and 19 touchdown passes in the first nine games, New England allowed 253.4 yards, a 57.3 completion percentage and 10 scoring passes in eight games with Talib.

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