The Facts: The clock is ticking on the Patriots to reach a deal with their leading receiver before he becomes a free agent. Meyers and the Patriots have been in talks for a new deal, however, they haven’t made much progress and he’s expected to hit free agency, ESPN’s Dan Graziano reported Sunday.

Diehards Line: Meyers has been commonly viewed as one of, if not the best, free-agent wide receivers this offseason. But he might not be paid like other top receivers have in free agency in recent years. Meyers could be looking at a deal with an average annual salary between $12 million and $15 million, multiple teams reportedly told NBC Sports Boston’s Phil Perry. In recent years, the highest-paid receiver in free agency has received more than that on an annual basis. Perry’s report should be welcomed news to the Patriots if they hope to retain Meyers. Pro Football Focus’ Brad Spielberger recently projected that Meyers would receive a four-year, $64 million deal with $40 million guaranteed, which is obviously higher than what Perry heard on what Meyers can get. Following the Patriots’ season-ending loss to the Bills, Meyers said multiple times that he’d like to remain in New England but also recognized the reality of the business in the NFL. ... Stay tuned.