ESPN Boston isn't currently projecting Patriots WR Deion Branch to earn a roster spot. Beat writer Mike Reiss has sensed a "general cooling" on Branch, though it's unclear from whom. Branch was certainly put behind the eight ball following the signing of Jabar Gaffney, but the Patriots' crowded receiver corps could take the entire preseason to sort itself out.

Deion Branch's one-year deal includes a $925,000 base salary, with another $650,000 possible through bonuses and incentives. The pact included a $250,000 signing bonus, and has a $150,000 workout bonus. An extra $250,000 is available through incentives. Even at such a bargain-basement price, Branch won't be guaranteed a roster spot after the Patriots signed three receivers and decided to keep Chad Ochocinco.

Patriots agreed to terms with Deion Branch on a one-year contract. Branch drew no reported interest on the free agent market. Other teams know his greatest value is his mind meld with Tom Brady, always being where he's supposed to be in the Patriots offense. No longer separating from defenders, Branch cleared 50 receiving yards just once in the Pats' final seven games of 2011. Following the additions of Brandon Lloyd, Donte' Stallworth, and Anthony Gonzalez, Branch may not be guaranteed a roster spot at age 33.

The Boston Herald believes Brandon Lloyd's signing could signal the end of free agent Deion Branch's time in New England. The Patriots also took a flier on Anthony Gonzalez Saturday, and despite Branch's near desperation to re-sign with the Pats, it's looking increasingly likely he'll be playing elsewhere in 2012. Branch has drawn no reported interest since the Tuesday start of free agency.

ESPN Boston finds it "hard to imagine" the Patriots won't re-sign free agent Deion Branch. Branch has practically begged to return to New England, and hinted he'd be willing to sign a team-friendly deal. Even with the Patriots believed to be committed to finding a true vertical threat, Branch should be back as long as the price is right.

The Boston Globe expects free agent Deion Branch back with the Patriots "on the cheap." The Globe then believes Branch will be a candidate for release depending on how the Patriots fare in free agency, the draft and long-term contract negotiations with Wes Welker. Branch told Yahoo's Jason Cole at the Scouting Combine he's "gotta retire as a Pat."

Free agent Deion Branch is "optimistic" he'll re-sign with the Patriots. Branch told Yahoo's Jason Cole at the Combine he's "gotta retire as a Pat." That would seem to suggest he's willing to return to New England for less than top dollar, but the interest might not be mutual if the Patriots commit to landing a high-dollar deep threat. Branch will turn 33 in July.

ESPN Boston's Mike Reiss expects the Patriots' wide receiver corps to "have a new look" in 2012.

Impending free agent Deion Branch hopes to retire a Patriot. "This is where I want to be, this is where I want to retire," Branch said following the Patriots' Super Bowl loss. Branch averaged just 48.6 receiving yards per game in 2011, and scored only one touchdown after Week 10. With the Pats in need of a true downfield threat at receiver, re-signing a soon-to-be 33-year-old Branch is unlikely to be a priority.

Deion Branch was held to three catches for 45 yards in the Patriots' Super Bowl loss to the Giants. The 32-year-old Branch cleared 50 receiving yards just once in the Pats' final seven games, including the playoffs, and only seven times all year. While Branch is a trusted target for Tom Brady, his physical talents are in significant decline. As an impending free agent, the Patriots shouldn't want Branch to return as any more than a No. 3 or 4 receiver in 2012.