Patriots release WR Deion Branch

On Saturday, the Patriots released veteran WR Deion Branch… again.

The move comes less than 24 hours before the Patriots’ matchup against the Indianapolis Colts. Branch, the MVP of Super Bowl XXXIX, was previously released just before New England’s week 1 matchup with the Tennessee Titans, only to be re-signed two weeks later.

The release of Branch seems strictly business, as the Patriots used Branch’s roster vacancy to activate newly acquired CB Aqib Talib. Additionally, the Patriots promoted WR Greg Salas from the Practice Squad. Branch must clear waivers before becoming a complete free agent. Judging by the shuffling of receivers this year, one would be hard-pressed to believe that Branch has played his final game in a Patriots’ uniform.

More to come on this story as it develops.