Deion Branch Takes Randy Moss’ Old Locker, Sports No. 84 at First Practice Back With Patriots

FOXBORO, Mass. — New Patriots wide receiver Deion Branch participated in his first practice since rejoining the team Tuesday afternoon.

Branch passed his physical prior to practice and began moving things into his new locker stall, which was vacated last week by Randy Moss. The stall is between Tom Brady's and Zoltan Mesko's.

Branch, who will wear No. 84, was acquired from the Seahawks on Monday. The 2002 second-round draft pick spent the first four seasons of his career with the Patriots before getting traded to Seattle for a first-round pick (which was used to select safety Brandon Meriweather) in 2006.

Also, cornerback Terrence Wheatley returned to practice for the first time in the 2010 regular season. He had been battling a foot injury.

Running back Fred Taylor was the only player missing from the session.

Branch is expected to meet with the New England media at 3 p.m. Tuesday.