BOSTON (CBS) – Deion Branch is back with the New England Patriots, again.

The team officially re-signed Branch Wednesday afternoon after speculation the wide receiver would re-join the team began following Tuesday night’s release of tight end Vinsanthe Shiancoe and receiver Donte’ Stallworth landing on the IR.

Branch was waived by New England on November 17 as he battled a hamstring injury. For the season, Branch has nine receptions for 80 yards in seven games.

The 11-year veteran will add a little more stability to a Patriots receiver corps that was thin on bodies since Julian Edelman was placed on the IR last week.

Branch was cut by the Patriots following training camp, but was re-signed prior to their Week 3 game against the Baltimore Ravens.