Charges against Zachariah Branch, a rookie receiver for the Falcons, have been cleared, according to his attorney.
Branch was taken into custody in April on two obstruction-related charges: one for blocking a sidewalk and another for obstructing law enforcement officials.
He posted bail of $39 that same night, just days before his NFL dreams came true when he was selected by the Falcons in the third round of the draft.
The incident took place around 12:20 a.m., as a crowd was trying to enter a bar that was at capacity. Law enforcement noted that “the crowd blocked the entrance and multiple people attempted to enter the facility even though entry was prohibited at the time.”
“Officers gave several lawful commands for the crowd to clear the sidewalk,” the police stated. “Mr. Zachariah Branch was specifically instructed to disperse but did not comply. This led to his arrest and the obstruction charges.”
On Wednesday, prosecutors in Georgia reviewed the available footage from that evening and opted to drop the charges.
“Zakaria fully cooperated with law enforcement, committed no crime on the night of his arrest, and should never have been arrested,” Branch’s attorney, Kim Stevens, remarked to a news outlet. “We’re relieved that this issue has been resolved, and Mr. Branch’s good name has been upheld.”
Branch was picked late in the 2026 NFL Draft after showcasing an impressive 4.35-second 40-yard dash at the combine, catching the eye of many scouts. He transferred from USC to Georgia in 2025, where he broke the school’s single-season receiving record with 81 receptions, amassing 811 yards and six touchdowns.
He’s not the only young Falcons player facing legal troubles; teammate James Pierce has been arrested on multiple charges following an incident involving his ex-girlfriend. Pierce is currently engaged in a diversion program that, upon completion, will dismiss the charges.
Branch’s addition to the Falcons comes as they seek to strengthen their receiving lineup alongside Drake London, who recently signed a hefty contract extension. The team is also on the verge of clinching a playoff spot for the 2025 season.
