TEMPE, AZ -- It looks like the Patriots may have dodged a bullet.
It was scary scene in the desert on Sunday when wide receiver Deion Branch went down with an apparent leg injury, but it appears New England fans can breathe a sigh of relief.
 Wide Recever Deion Branch CLICK HERE to Buy Photo! |
The third-year receiver was in pursuit of Darling when teammate Stephen Neal upended him after he was pushed from behind while trying to also make a play on the Arizona linebacker.
Branch was then seen writhing in pain on the sidelines and holding his leg, and was attended to by trainers while his teammates looked on. He eventually got up on his own and walked off under his own power and walked to the locker room.
Branch didn't return to the game and wasn't seen on the sidelines after the half.
However Belichick told reporters after the game that Branch could have returned but was simply kept on the sidelines.
"I think Deion is OK," Belichick told the Boston Herald after the game. "He told me he could have gone back in the game, but I didn't want to put him back in for the second half. We'll know more later, but he was asking to go back in."
Branch will have plenty of time to recover. The team has a bye week this week and won't play their next football game until October 3rd when they travel to Buffalo to take on the Bills.
More News Headlines:
MORSE: Day One of Patriots Mini-Camp and Morse’s Morsels
By: Mark MorsePatriots Mini-Camp Day 1: Drake Maye impressed, Gabe Jacas missed due to injury, and Christian Gonzalez had a 'hold-in.' Boutte's trade rumors noted.
Vrabel on Patriots Rookie Jacas: ‘He had a procedure, and he’s not under contract’
By: Ian LogueVrabel discusses Patriots rookie Gabe Jacas's absence, citing a procedure and his unsigned contract. The second-round pick's delayed start raises questions.
Vrabel Offers Non-Update on Christian Gonzalez Extension Talks
By: Ian LogueDuring his press conference ahead of Mandatory Minicamp, Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel addressed questions regarding a potential contract extension for cornerback Christian Gonzalez.
TRANSCRIPT: Mike Vrabel Press Conference 6/9
By: Ian LogueHere's the full transcript of what New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel had to say during his press conference on Tuesday, June 9, 2026…
Patriots’ Maye an Upgrade for Brown? – ‘He Can Make Any Throw’
By: Ian LogueDrake Maye's talent and vision could unlock A.J. Brown's potential, making him an upgrade over Stefon Diggs for the Patriots in 2026.
