On the same day that the Patriots released Chad Ochocinco, ESPN Boston reported that Deion Branch is on “solid footing” with the Patriots, in terms of his roster spot. With Anthony Gonzalez and now Chad Ochocinco gone, things look a little clearer at wide receiver for the Patriots. Behind Wes Welker, Brandon Lloyd, and Jabar Gaffney, virtual locks to make the roster, Branch has Donte Stallworth, Julian Edelman, and Matt Slater to with compete for a roster spot.

Branch and Stallworth are the veteran receivers, while Edelman and Slater are younger players who can play on defense and special teams as well. At least one of each bunch will likely make the roster and it’s possible that 3 of those 4 could make the roster if the Patriots decide to carry 6 receivers. Given that, Branch has a very good chance to make the roster as the 4^th receiver. 7^th round rookie Jeremy Ebert will probably begin his career on the practice squad.

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