With a playoff matchup just days away, the Indianapolis Colts have opted to sign wide receiver Deion Branch, formally of the New England Patriots. The Colts announced Monday the free agent would join the team after playing seven seasons with New England and winning two Super Bowls during that time. Is this just a move to gain an edge. Chuck Pagano does not think so.
Many are questioning the move to sign the wide receiver at this point in the season. Indianapolis lost Darrius Heyward-Bey to a hamstring injury and needed someone to fill his spot. Of course they sign a former Patriots player considering that is who they are preparing to play come the weekend. Pagano denies any idea they are using Branch to gain an edge on the opponent.
"You know it really didn't sit there and factor in. Having had some time spent there, we figured that the questions were going to come up. 'If you're signing this guy who spent time in New England, is it just a coincidence or do you need the guy to help you win a football game?'"
Branch as not played since 2012 when the Patriots last competed in the Super Bowl. Last season he had just 16 catches for 145 yards and zero touchdowns while playing just 10 games. New England opted not to re-sign him.
Patriots head coach Bill Belichick is not thinking twice about the signing of Branch. Belichick piledo n the compliments regarding Branch and made no notion that he would help the Colts gain some kind of edge in the AFC Divisional playoff rounds.
Deion had a great career here," Belichick said, via Tom Curran of CSNNE.com. "I think he was here for seven years or north thereof. Very smart, professional player. Great leader. One of the top guys we've had here in terms of off the field work ethic, leadership, intelligence, preparation, all those things. He had some very productive seasons here. He's a tremendous person. He's had a great career."
Branch does not have much time to get up to speed on all things Indianapolis. The signing will certainly fall under fire, especially if the Colts win.