New England Patriots defensive tackle Alan Branch been suspended four game for violating the NFL’s drug policy after testing positive for marijuana, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter. Branch intends to appeal.

Patriots DT Alan Branch is being suspended four games for violating drug policy, sources tell ESPN. Tested positive for marijuana. Appealing

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) November 21, 2016

Branch was suspended by the team for one of their preseason games, but the reason was never announced.



Branch has started for the Patriots in all 10 of their games in the 2016 seasons. The 6-foot-6, 350-pound defensive tackle has 19 tackles, one forced fumble and one sack.

Malcom Brown has been the Patriots other starting defensive tackle. Rookie Vincent Valentine has contributed as well, and he is closest to Branch’s size and skill set. Practice squad player Anthony Johnson has played in some games at defensive tackle.

http://patriotswire.usatoday.com/201...l-drug-policy/