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Well that was fast.
After just one game, the Patriots have placed receiver Donte Stallworth on season-ending injured reserve with an apparent ankle injury. This news comes as something of a shock, as Stallworth had a fairly dynamic debut highlighted by a 63 yard touchdown catch that showcased his speed and hands. The move once again left the Patriots thin at receiver, leading them to finally welcome Deion Branch back into the fold.
Unlike the Stallworth move, the Branch signing comes as no surprise whatsoever; Branch's locker remained intact ever since his release from the team, and it seemed it was just a matter of waiting for him to get healthy before bringing him back. Hopefully his hamstring is 100% again, because the Patriots are going to need his services right away as the stingy 49ers defense heads this way.
The Patriots have also released Visanthe Shiancoe, who hasn't been able to see the field since he was officially activated.