"The Patriots traded a late-round 2015 draft choice for an 18-day trial with Salas, and now they've decided to go back to the known commodity over intriguing potential. We'll now wait to see if Salas clears waivers and possibly returns to the practice squad, as he has eligibility. In that scenario, the Patriots would have the best of both worlds -- an experienced target on the 53-man roster to help ease the loss of tight end Aaron Hernandez (right ankle), as well as a player on the practice squad to groom for the future."

so if we p.s. him for the future and branch is back, bb gets what he wants ( bb wanted him back after he did not have to give a guranteed contract).

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In response to ricky12684's comment:

 I'd say there is a 50-50 chance he clears . .  . but what did they really give up for him?  A 7th round pick . . . in the last 20 years how many 7th rounder have become starters for this team?  The Pats have much better luck with FAs and the come at a much cheaper price.