The Indianapolis Colts have signed former Patriots wide receiver Deion Branch. The former Patriots Super Bowl MVP. The former favorite target of Tom Brady. Franchise eighth all time in receptions, ninth all time in yards, twelfth all time in receiving touchdowns.
I don't know what to say. I haven't felt this gutted since Wes Welker decided to join Peyton Manning. Or when Adam Vinatieri decided to join Peyton Manning. Or when Deion freaking Branch decided to join the Colts right before a playoff game. Branch tried out for the Colts on December 12th.
Branch spent last season with the Patriots and should be fairly familiar with how to scout the New England offense. His actual knowledge is probably scant, as the Patriots offense features precisely one target (Julian Edelman) who was of value when Branch was around. And with LeGarrette Blount holding down the fort at running back, Branch probably won't know his plays.
His value comes in knowing Brady. He can read him. He knows how to scout the Patriots offense since he's familiar with the coaches. He'll know how New England wants to attack the Colts broken down secondary. And he'll help them mask it.
Or maybe I'm over-reacting. Maybe he's just over there to unplug a fax machine.