Alan Branch Suspended for Drug Policy Violation: Latest Details and Reaction

November 22, 2016   ·   Timothy Rapp   ·   Jump to comments

New England Patriots defensive tackle Alan Branch reportedly has been suspended four games by the NFL for violating the league's drug policy, according to Adam Schefter of ESPN.
Schefter reported Branch tested positive for marijuana and will appeal the suspension. NFL Network's Ian Rapoport confirmed Schefter's report (h/t Nick Shook of NFL.com).
According to Ben Volin of the Boston Globe, the suspension indicates it's the fourth time Branch has tested positive for the substance.
Volin provided the NFL policy on the drug:
Branch, 31, has registered 33 tackles, six stuffs, a sack and a forced fumble this season, starting nine games. It's potentially a big loss for a Patriots defense that has struggled at times this season, giving up just 18.0 points per game (third in the NFL) but 355.2 yards per game (17th).
That includes 103.1 rush yards per contest (17th). Certainly, losing a big body like Branch in the middle of the line won't help the team's run defense.
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