ATHENS, Ga. (AP) — Prosecutors in Georgia have dropped two misdemeanor charges against Atlanta Falcons third-round draft pick Zachariah Branch.
The former Georgia player was arrested in Athens the weekend before the NFL draft and was charged with obstructing public sidewalks/streets and the obstruction of a law enforcement officer. He was released on a combined $39 bail.
At the time, the Athens-Clarke County Police said they were summoned to an early morning incident in which a large crowd had gathered outside a bar in Athens and was blocking the entrance to the building. Some people, a statement from the police said, were attempting to enter the bar that was closed.
Branch’s attorney, Kim Stephens, issued a statement confirming that the charges had been dropped.
“After reviewing all evidence, including videos, and discussing the case with us, the State agreed to dismiss all charges against Mr. Branch yesterday. Zachariah cooperated fully with law enforcement and did not commit a crime on the night of his arrest, and never should have been arrested. We are glad this matter is over and that Mr. Branch’s excellent reputation and good name have been restored.”
The Falcons took Branch with the No. 79 overall pick in April.
He led the playoff-bound Bulldogs with 81 catches, 811 yards and six touchdown receptions in 2025. Branch and his brother, Zion, both transferred to Georgia from Southern California last year. Zion Branch was a safety for the Bulldogs.
___
AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/NFL
-
Hear from Noah Hanifin ahead of Stanley Cup Finals in North Carolina
The Guys in Gold are gearing up for the Stanley Cup finals as they prepare to take on the Carolina Hurricanes.
Browns trading 2-time AP Defensive Player of the Year Myles Garrett to Rams
The Cleveland Browns are trading two-time AP NFL Defensive Player of the Year Myles Garrett to the Los Angeles Rams in a blockbuster deal.
Vegas Golden Knights leadership talks preparations ahead of Stanley Cup Finals
General Manager Kelly McCrimmon and Head Coach John Tortorella spoke to media members, reflecting on the playoff run so far and looking ahead to the Stanley Cup Finals.
WATCH: Vegas Golden Knights leadership talks preparations for Stanley Cup Final
The Guys in Gold are in North Carolina as they prepare to start this series after coming off a clean sweep against the Colorado Avalanche in the Western Conference Finals.
