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Falcons' third-round pick Zachariah Branch charges dismissed

6/4/2026

Summary

Zachariah Branch Charges Dismissed

Falcons third-round pick Zachariah Branch had the charges from his April arrest in Athens, Georgia, dismissed.
He was arrested on two misdemeanor counts for failing to follow a police officer’s commands.
Prosecutors said insufficient evidence prevented them from sustaining the charges, leading to dismissal.
Attorney Kim Stephens said Branch cooperated, never committed a crime, and posted 81 catches for 811 yards and six touchdowns after transferring from USC to Georgia.

Summary

Branch Charges Dropped

Attorney Kim Stephens told ESPN on June 3, 2026 that prosecutors dismissed the case against Branch, restoring his reputation and his “excellent reputation and good name.”
Branch had attended the University of Georgia’s spring football game on April 19, 2026 before his arrest.
Branch’s brother, Zion Branch, is a safety for the University of Georgia Bulldogs.

Summary

Branch Cleared

Zachariah Branch took part in the Atlanta Falcons' organized team activities on Tuesday.
Coaches described Branch's movement during the drills as “insane.”
Police reported that Branch stood on a sidewalk, smirked, stepped backward and ignored several lawful commands before arrest.
With the charges dismissed, Branch can now focus on his new job with the Falcons.
Clips of the OTAs were posted online under the hashtag #FalconsWRs.

History

Historical Context

After the NFL’s 2007 Personal Conduct Policy—introduced by Commissioner Roger Goodell in April and triggered by Michael Vick’s dog-fighting case and over fifty player arrests since the 2006 season—suspended Adam “Pacman” Jones and Chris Henry, the league began clearing charges quickly to protect eligibility. In June 2026, prosecutors dismissed Atlanta rookie Zachariah Branch’s April arrest, allowing his participation in team activities.

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Zachariah Branch Charges Dismissed

Falcons third-round pick Zachariah Branch had the charges from his April arrest in Athens, Georgia, dismissed.
He was arrested on two misdemeanor counts for failing to follow a police officer’s commands.
Prosecutors said insufficient evidence prevented them from sustaining the charges, leading to dismissal.
Attorney Kim Stephens said Branch cooperated, never committed a crime, and posted 81 catches for 811 yards and six touchdowns after transferring from USC to Georgia.

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