'Hawks' Branch traded to Patriots

RENTON, Wash. (AP) - Deion Branch is headed back to New England.

Branch, the former Super Bowl MVP wide receiver with the Patriots, was traded Monday night from the Seattle Seahawks to New England. The Seahawks confirmed the trade late Monday night.

ESPN.com first reported the deal and that Seattle would be receiving a fourth-round pick in exchange.

The trade ended a day of speculation after Branch was absent from Seahawks practice. Seattle coach Pete Carroll said he gave Branch a "personal day" but also expected Branch to be with the team at its next practice on Wednesday.