Vince Wilfork

New England Patriots defensive tackle Vince Wilfork jogs onto the field before an NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Sunday, Sept. 22, 2013, in Foxborough, Mass. (AP Photo/Elise Amendola)

(Elise Amendola / Associated Press)

There has been a lot of speculation in recent weeks that Vince Wilfork's inflated salary could lead to his release.

Set to count $11.6 million against the salary cap in 2014, Wilfork, 32, is fighting his way back from a torn Achilles. With his age, injury, and size all working against him, some have speculated that Wilfork could be released if he refuses to accept a new deal.

At least one person who has played with Wilfork can’t fathom this possibility.

“If he hits the free agency, I would be shocked,” linebacker Brandon Spikes said during an appearance on NFL Network. “I think the Patriots love him, the organization up there, Boston loves him. He’s been there for a while. I just honestly can’t see him leaving.”

Wilfork, who is entering the final year of his contract, suffered the injury in Week 4 and missed the rest of the season. In 2012, he earned All-Pro honors after collecting 48 tackles, three sacks, and two forced fumbles.