Are you guys really that clueless? The point is the are giving him the chance to shop around and see what his value is on the open market but at the same time they are saying we want you to be here by asking for an unreal 2 round 1 picks. The Patriots didn't stop talking it was Branch's agent who cut off all talks. That was Pioli's and Belichicks way to get talks going once again.
Do you really think they would get two round 1 picks for Branch? Of course not.
http://www.boston.com/sports/football/patriots/reiss_pieces/
"By agreeing to let receiver Deion Branch seek a trade and negotiate with other teams, the Patriots have attempted to breathe life into what had become a stagnant situation. At least now, the two sides might have something to talk about after a long impasse
From Branch’s perspective, it is an opportunity to see what 31 other teams believe he’s worth at this time. In a sense, it’s a trial run at unrestricted free agency, which his representatives have targeted as a priority by asking the Patriots to not place the franchise tag on Branch.
More than anything, this appears to be a move to put the ball in Branch’s court. Negotiations are always two-way streets, and by publicly stating they are willing to allow Branch to negotiate with other clubs and seek a trade, the Patriots are –- at the very least –- showing a commitment to reach some sort of resolution."
Now we wait to see the counter move.