Alan Branch’s Absence From Patriots Practice Not Injury Related

FOXBORO, Mass. — A 6-foot-6, 325-pound, newly signed defensive tackle was conspicuously missing from New England Patriots practice Thursday.

Alan Branch’s absence was not injury related, however, according to the team’s practice participation and injury report.

The rest of the injury report remained unchanged from Wednesday. Defensive end Chandler Jones was the lone absence with a hip injury.

Defensive lineman Dominique Easley (knee), safety Nate Ebner (finger), offensive tackle Cameron Fleming (finger) and wide receiver Matthew Slater (shoulder) were limited in practice.

Quarterback Tom Brady (ankle), cornerback Brandon Browner (ankle) and linebacker Dont’a Hightower (knee) were full participants despite their injuries.

Photo via Jason Bridge/USA TODAY Sports Images