Indianapolis Colts head coach Chuck Pagano has revealed that it was an easy decision to sign wide receiver Deion Branch to his active roster.

Branch joined the Colts yesterday having not played since 2012, when his seven-season stint with the New England Patriots ended.

The 34-year-old enjoyed plenty of success during his time with the Patriots, including being named the Super Bowl MVP once, and Pagano believes that it was a simple choice to bring him in having already worked him out this season.

"We have a pool of guys in case you have injuries. Deion was one of the guys we worked out," Pagano told reporters.

"He's a local guy who lives in Carmel, [Ind.], he's in great shape, had a great workout and obviously he's a proven guy and played at a high level for a long time in this league.

"With him being right here in our backyard and us having some familiarity with him from just working him out, it just made sense to bring him on board at this point."

Branch could come up against his former team when the Colts face the Patriots in the playoffs on Saturday.