FOXBORO, Mass. — Send out the search parties. Alan Branch has gone missing again.
The newly acquired New England Patriots defensive tackle was not spotted at the beginning of practice Thursday at Gillette Stadium. Branch officially signed with the team Wednesday after more than a week of speculation regarding whether or not he was on the team.
It’s possible that Branch’s absence is tied to his DUI charge and potential two-game suspension.
Defensive end Chandler Jones (hip) also was absent for practice. Guard Chris Barker has rejoined the Patriots’ practice squad, and it appears defensive lineman Ben Bass, who was not at practice, has been released.
Barker was waived Tuesday after the Patriots acquired linebacker Jonathan Casillas via trade from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Barker cleared waivers Wednesday when he wasn’t added by another team.
UPDATE (3:11 p.m.): The Patriots confirmed they had re-signed Barker to the practice squad and released Bass.
Photo via Kim Klement/USA TODAY Sports Images
