A long-time rumor finally came to fruition Monday night as ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported that the Patriots have decided to bring back wide receiver Deion Branch. Schefter’s sources say the Patriots exchanged a 2011 fourth round pick for the veteran receiver, who will practice with the team on Tuesday.
As soon as the Patriots dealt Randy Moss, speculation began building that New England may make a run at the Super Bowl XXIX MVP. Branch has openly stated that he would welcome a return to the team that drafted him, and he and Tom Brady have remained close friends during Branch’s time with the Seahawks. It’s no secret that Branch doesn’t possess the talent that Moss has, but the chemistry he and Brady built during his tenure with the Patriots could make up for what he’s lacking in actual skill.
If the Patriots are trying to rediscover their old identity, this would seemingly be a step in the right direction. I highly doubt there would ever be any rumors of Branch and Brady arguing over beards and hair styles, and there’s no doubt No. 12 will be pleased with the front office for bringing back his boy. Whether or not the two can reemerge as one of the better wide receiver-quarterback duos in the league remains to be seen.
