The Indianapolis Colts signed former New England Patriot wide receiver Deion Branch on Monday. Ironically the Colts play the Patriots on Saturday in the divisional round of the AFC playoffs. Terms of the deal were not revealed.
While with the Patriots, Branch won two Super Bowl titles, and was the Super Bowl MVP for the Patriots third title. Branch has spent most of his career with the Patriots. During that time he has 518 catches for 6,664 yards and 39 touchdowns, according to the Associated Press. In 17 playoff games, Branch has 64 receptions for 948 yards and four touchdowns.
The Colts had to make some moves in order for there to be room for Branch. Wide receiver Josh Lenz was promoted from the practice squad, defensive tackle Christian Tupou was released from the practice squad, and they put defensive end Fili Moala and cornerback Greg Toler on injured reserve, according to the Chicago Tribune.
Maola played in every regular season game and had 26 tackles, and 1.5 sacks. Toler had 24 tackles and one interception during the regular season. He suffered a groin injury during Saturday’s game against the Kansas City Chiefs.
It will be interesting to see if Branch can perform like he did with the Patriots with the Colts.