Branch Re-Signs

            The New England Patriots re-signed wide receiver Deion Branch to a one-year contract this afternoon, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter. Branch, 32, had expressed his desire to return and as one of Tom Brady’s favorite targets, the interest was mutual. His return adds to an already deep receiving corps and creates even more interest in what should be one of the most interesting positional battles come training camp.

Projected WR Depth Chart:

Wes Welker

Brandon Lloyd

Deion Branch

Chad Ochocinco

Donte’ Stallworth

Julian Edelman

Anthony Gonzalez

Tiquan Underwood

Britt Davis

Matt Slater

            As previously stated, Brady’s relationship and comfort level with Branch will make him an extremely tough cut come September. In my opinion the team still will add some youth to the position come draft time, so a handful of these players are going to be on the outside looking in. A team is only going to carry so many 30-something year old receivers, so I would really look for Stallworth, Ochocinco, or less likely, Branch, to be released at some point before the season. Britt Davis, Tiquan Underwood, and Anthony Gonzalez likely face the longest odds to stick with the team come cuts.  The only players I would label locks to make the roster are Wes Welker and Brandon Lloyd.