Alan Branch returning to Patriots on a 2-year deal
One of the Patriots' best defensive linemen is returning to the team. Alan Branch is reportedly going to sign a two-year deal later this afternoon, according to Mike Giardi of CSNNE.
— Michael Giardi (@MikeGiardi) March 9, 2017
The news comes just shortly after it was reported that Duron Harmon would be returning as well. Branch was excellent with the Patriots last year, acting as a huge run-stuffer, among other things.
Last season, Branch enjoyed the best season of his 10-year career, registering 49 tackles, 1.5 forced fumbles and one sack. He also came up with a huge fumble recovery in Super Bowl LI as part of the Patriots' unprecedented 25-point comeback over the Atlanta Falcons.
Branch spent a lot of time being doubled last season, which opened up a lot of avenues for Dont'a Hightower, Rob Ninkovich and others to consistently get to the quarterback.
Ian Rapoport of the NFL Network reports Branch will earn up to $12 million through the length of the contract.
The #Patriots are signing DT Alan Branch back on a 2-year deal worth up to $12M, source says. They are finalizing it now.— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 9, 2017
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