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Deion Branch released by New England Patriots

Published: Nov 17, 2012 at 08:45 AM

Deion Branch's reunion with the New England Patriots didn't have legs.

NFL.com's Albert Breer reported Saturday that the Patriots have released Branch, per a source who has spoken with the player. The Patriots later confirmed Branch's release.

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Branch injured his hamstring Friday and was questionable for Sunday's matchup against the Indianapolis Colts. Tom E. Curran of Comcast SportsNet New England reported the injury led to Branch's release.

Branch initially was cut by the Patriots before the season opener, but he was re-signed before Week 3. He never found a niche in the Patriots' offense this season, managing just nine receptions for 80 yards in seven games, including three starts.

Branch, 33, was a second-round draft pick of the Patriots in 2002 and the MVP of Super Bowl XXXIX in 2005, when he had 11 receptions for 133 yards. He is ninth on the Patriots' all-time receiving list despite spending five seasons of his career with the Seattle Seahawks.

The Patriots also released defensive back Malcolm Williams. Wide receiver Greg Salas and cornerback Aqib Talib have been added to the 53-man roster.

Follow Dan Hanzus on Twitter @danhanzus.

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