The New England Patriots’ defensive line received a huge boost Saturday.
Patriots defensive tackle Alan Branch has won his appeal and will not be suspended, a source told ESPN’s Field Yates. Branch was facing a four-game ban for reportedly violating the NFL’s substance abuse policy.
Branch has been one of New England’s most consistent defensive players this season, starting all 11 games and leading all Patriots defensive linemen in tackles with 39. The 31-year-old also provides valuable experience to an extremely young D-line that features rookies Vincent Valentine and Woodrow Hamilton and second-year pro Malcom Brown.
The Patriots host the Los Angeles Rams on Sunday afternoon at Gillette Stadium.
Thumbnail photo via Bob DeChiara/USA TODAY Sports Images
