FOXBORO -- The Patriots announced on Thursday that receiver Greg Salas had been signed to the practice squad. In order to make room for Salas, wideout Kerry Taylor was released.
The Patriots traded an undisclosed future draft pick for Salas on Sept. 1. He was on the Patriots active 53-man roster for Week 1 against Tennessee though he did not see any action on the field. He was inactive in Week 2 against the Cardinals.
Salas essentially took Branch's vacated roster spot one day after Branch was cut. But when Branch was re-signed with the Patriots this week, Salas became expendable and was released. Salas then passed through waivers, making him practice-squad eligible.
Patriots offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels coached Salas in St. Louis last season where the receiver had 27 catches for 269 yards in six games. If the Patriots were to suffer an injury to any of the members of their receiving group, because Salas is familiar with McDaniels' system, he may be the player most ready to step in.