Branch met with the media Tuesday for the first time since re-signing with the Patriots, and he was legitimately happy to get another year with the only organization he ever wants to play for.
Branch said there was some "conversation" about linking up with another team this offseason, but he let it be known he wouldn't sign anywhere until he got the final word from the Patriots, who re-signed him during the second week of free agency.
"This is where I want to be," Branch said. "This is where I want to retire. Coach [Bill] Belichick, and I, and his staff and his organization made sure we tried to head in that direction.''
Branch is one of 10 wide receivers on the roster, which includes three new veterans — Brandon Lloyd, Donte Stallworth and Anthony Gonzalez — so he may have to earn his spot now more than ever.
"I wouldn't want it any other way," Branch said. "I'm here to compete, show the coaches while I'm here, why they have me on this team. That's my job — to go out, to compete and try to help my team.''
Branch has been doing that for nearly seven full seasons, and his rapport with quarterback Tom Brady should keep him in town for at least one more go-around.
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