The Patriots defense took another hit as they will be without one of their top defensive players and a starter on the defensive line for possibly four games.
ESPN’s Adam Schefter has reported that defensive tackle Alan Branch has been suspended four games for violating the NFL’s drug policy. Apparently, Branch tested positive for marijuana. Branch is appealing per Schefter’s report.
Branch has been playing some of his best football since becoming a member of the Patriots in 2014. He’s been a valued anchor on the defensive line with Malcom Brown on the interior. This leaves the Patriots thin at the position with just Brown, and rookies Vincent Valentine and Woodrow Hamilton, both of whom have missed time this season due to injuries.
So what is in store for the Patriots who have upcoming games against the Jets, Rams, Ravens, and Broncos during Branch’s league imposed vacation? The good news in the short term is that his appeal won’t be heard until next week, so he’ll be able to play against the Jets.
But until Branch is eligible to return expect the Patriots to add another big body to the inside. Who is available? Scouring the free agent market, there are a few names that could be of interest to the Patriots. Former Dolphin and Cleveland Brown Randy Starks, Ishmaa’ily Kitchen who spent some time with the Patriots, Kenrick Ellis as well as two players who spent training camp with the team, Terrance Knighton and Markus Kuhn.
With the Patriots defense struggling in recent weeks and facing teams that like to run the football, this could be a costly suspension. The rookies will be looked at to step up in the interim and play some valuable snaps.
Follow me on Twitter @SteveB7SFG or email me at [email protected]
Listen to our Patriots 4th and 2 podcasts on blog talk radio as the writers Russ Goldman, Derek Havens and I from PatsFans.com discuss the latest Patriots news Wednesdays at 12 noon.
Support Steve and buy him a coffee.
Support Us: Help Us Compete Against The Corporate Media Giants
We need your help. If you enjoy our content, please help us beat Google's Corporate algorithm by adding us as a preferred source on Google News.
Click the button below and check the box next to "PatsFans.com"
Add as a preferred source on Google News
A former US Army Special Forces NCO and Officer, Steve has been following the Patriots since their days at Fenway Park. Steve has worked in the film industry and wrote as an Military Editor at SpecialOperations.com, 1945.com as a reporter for the Millbury Daily Voice, Millbury-Sutton Chronicle, and the Grafton News. He's also a member of the Pro Football Writers of America (PFWA)
More Patriots News Headlines:
Drake Maye on Christian Gonzalez Contract Standoff, His Own Patriots Future
By: Ian LogueDrake Maye addresses Christian Gonzalez's contract standoff and how it might impact his own future with the Patriots. But long-term, QB is the priority.
Patriots Maye on Intense Practice Battles: ‘You Like to See a Little Trash Talk’
By: Ian LogueDrake Maye thrives on intense Patriots practice battles, crediting fierce competition with Christian Gonzalez and A.J. Brown for his growth.
MORSE: Notes & Analysis of Patriots Training Camp – Day 10
By: Mark MorseAnalyzing Patriots Training Camp Day 10: Efton Chism steps up for Drake Maye's unit, while Chad Muma and Karon Prunty impress.
TRANSCRIPT: Drake Maye Press Conference 8/5
By: Ian LogueHere's the full transcript what New England Patriots quarterback Drake Maye had to say during his press conference on August 5, 2026.
MORSE: Notes From Patriots Training Camp – Day 9
By: Mark MorsePatriots Training Camp Day 9 highlights: Drake Maye's strong finish, big plays from Mack Hollins and Kayshon Boutte, plus Dre'Mont Jones' two sacks.
