“I started the other day because now I have so many coaches. I’m trying right now to start calling them, my little league coaches, the ones that haven’t called me already asking for tickets [to Super Bowl XLVI],’’ Branch said with a laugh yesterday. “All of those guys are very important.’’
When Branch calls his coaches, he tells them “the same thing that I tell them each and every year. Every year I always talk to them, just to let them know I appreciate them, and everything I’m doing they have a big part in.’’
Branch’s gesture is touching, one that shows he not only hasn’t forgotten what it took to get to the NFL and enjoy a 10-year pro career, but that he also remembers everyone who played a role in getting him here.
This week and next, Branch is in a place he hasn’t been in quite some time: preparing for the Super Bowl. When last he made it to the NFL’s championship game with the Patriots in February 2005, he was the biggest player on the biggest stage, tying a Super Bowl record with 11 receptions for 133 yards and earning the most valuable player award.
But a contract dispute led to Branch being traded to Seattle in September 2006, and in his four-plus seasons with the Seahawks, he didn’t get past the divisional round of the playoffs.
So just as Branch has been appreciative of the opportunity to return to New England, which happened in October 2010, he is perhaps more appreciative to be in this position, with the season extending yet again to the Super Bowl.
“It’s been a long time, man. I’m very excited for the opportunity,’’ Branch said, his voice back to its normal rasp after he lost it from celebrating the AFC Championship win over the Ravens. “Very thankful. It’s an honor just to be part of this team and have the opportunity to play in the game once again. I think we’re all excited.’’
