The Patriots are set to re-sign Branch, according to Shalise Manza Young of the Boston Globe. Branch played in seven games with New England this season, starting three. He has nine receptions for 80 yards on the season without a touchdown.
Branch was reportedly ailing with a hamstring injury prior to his November release. The Patriots now have Wes Welker, Brandon Lloyd, Matthew Slater and Branch in their receiving corps. New England also has an open slot on its roster following the release of Visanthe Shiancoe.