Deion Branch has returned again to the New England Patriots.

Branch was released on Nov. 17 and missed the past four games.

It’s been nearly seven years since Branch was named MVP of the Super Bowl after catching 11 passes in a 24-21 win over the Philadelphia Eagles.

‘‘It was a long time ago,’’ he said, ‘‘but that stuff is in the past. It’s behind us. I think we all need to be grateful, be thankful just to play the game that we play. I'm thankful. I seize every moment that I get. I'm just glad to be back.’’