The New England Patriots are bringing a blast from their championship past to the podium for the 2026 NFL Draft. Super Bowl XXXIX MVP Deion Branch will have the honor of announcing the team's Day 2 selections, adding a dose of franchise history to the event's second and third rounds on Friday, April 24.

Branch is a perfect ambassador for this role, having been a Patriots second-round pick himself back in 2002. Over two stints and seven total seasons in New England, he became a key weapon, hauling in 384 passes for 5,149 yards and 28 touchdowns. More importantly, he was a vital part of the dynasty, earning Super Bowl rings following the 2003 and 2004 seasons.

Now the wide receivers coach at his alma mater, Louisville, Branch will step back into the spotlight to reveal the Patriots' next potential stars. The team, coming off a Super Bowl appearance, currently holds the 63rd overall pick in the second round and the 95th pick in the third.

The draft festivities begin with the first round on Thursday, April 23, in Pittsburgh. After Branch helps steer the Patriots through Friday's action, the event will wrap up on Saturday with Rounds 4 through 7.