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New England Patriots: Top Five Free Agents Patriots Must Re-Sign This Offseason

By Michael Hudson

Dec 18, 2016; Denver, CO, USA; New England Patriots cornerback Malcolm Butler (21) before the game against the Denver Broncos at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 18, 2016; Denver, CO, USA; New England Patriots cornerback Malcolm Butler (21) before the game against the Denver Broncos at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports /
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#4 Alan Branch, DT

Alan Branch Patriots
Aug 11, 2016; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots defensive tackle Alan Branch (97) sits on the sidelines during the second half against the New Orleans Saints at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob DeChiara-USA TODAY Sports /

Bill Belichick has always valued stalwart interior defensive linemen. He did so by re-signing Vince Wilfork in 2009 and again two years ago in drafting his replacement in Malcolm Brown, who turned in an excellent 2016 campaign.

But much of Brown’s success is also owed to Branch, who was one of the best run stoppers the Patriots had last season. Often taking on multiple double teams, his size and power often freed up gaps to allow Brown and defensive ends Trey Flowers and Jabaal Sheard to penetrate runs in the backfield.

While Branch will turn 33 at the end of next season, he has showed that he has plenty left in the tank. If he is willing to take a discount to return to the Patriots, he has an excellent chance at returning to New England next season on a short-term deal.

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