Deion Branch, former New England Patriots star and Super Bowl MVP, has been promoted to wide receivers coach at the University of Louisville under head coach Jeff Brohm according to The Courier Journal. This new role marks another chapter in Branch's deep connection with the Cardinals, where he previously served as the director of player development and even stepped in as interim head coach for the 2022 Fenway Bowl. Now, he brings his NFL experience and championship pedigree to mentor Louisville's next generation of receivers.
Branch's collegiate career began at Jones County Junior College, where he earned second-team All-American honors before transferring to the University of Louisville in 2000. In his junior year, Branch led the team with 71 receptions for 1,016 yards and nine touchdowns, contributing to the Cardinals' Conference USA Championship and a Liberty Bowl appearance. His final season was equally impressive, with 72 catches for 1,188 yards and nine touchdowns, leading to another conference title and a Liberty Bowl victory over BYU. Branch's consistent performance earned him first-team All-Conference USA honors in both seasons.
The Patriots selected Branch in the second round of the 2002 NFL Draft and he quickly became a key player, known for his reliable hands and precise route-running. Branch's most notable achievement came in Super Bowl XXXIX, where he tied the Super Bowl record with 11 receptions for 133 yards, earning him the MVP title.
Branch's tenure with the Patriots was marked by two Super Bowl victories in 2003 and 2004. After a stint with the Seattle Seahawks from 2006 to 2010, he returned to the Patriots, contributing to another Super Bowl appearance in XLVI. Over his NFL career, Branch amassed 518 receptions, 6,644 receiving yards, and 39 touchdowns, solidifying his legacy as a dependable and clutch performer.
After retiring from professional football, Branch returned to the University of Louisville, serving as the director of player development and alumni relations. In 2022, he stepped in as the interim head coach for the Cardinals' appearance in the Fenway Bowl, leading the team to a victory over Cincinnati. His promotion to wide receivers coach is the latest step in his post-playing career, where he will use his vast experience to develop Louisville's offensive talent.
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