Patriots pick up Kenny Britt's 2018 option, decline Alan Branch's

Steven Senne/AP

Wide receiver Kenny Britt will be back with the Patriots in 2018, as the team has picked up the option in his contract. Ian Rapoport of the NFL Network is reporting New England is expecting "big things" from Britt, which could mean they don't think they can re-sign Danny Amendola.

#Patriots WR Kenny Britt was informed that his option was picked up, source said. He’s back for 2018 and they’re looking for big things out of him.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 6, 2018

Britt was signed as a free agent late in the year after being cut by the Cleveland Browns. He did not play in the playoffs.

Meanwhile, the Pats declined Alan Branch's option, so he will not return to the team. Branch has been with the Patriots since the 2014-2015 season and was a key component on the Super Bowl XLIX and Super Bowl LI-winning teams.

Injuries and inconsistent play plagued Branch last season and like Britt, he did not play in the playoffs despite being healthy enough to go. The Patriots will save $3.5 million in cap space as a result of Branch's departure.

The Patriots won't pick up DT Alan Branch's option, per source. He'll become a free agent.
— Doug Kyed (@DougKyed) March 6, 2018

Follow me on Twitter - @JesseGaunce

For more of my articles, click here.

Patriots pick up Kenny Britt's 2018 option, decline Alan Branch's

2024 Patriots Schedule