Falcons Have Big Plans For Former Georgia WR Zachariah Branch Despite Arrest

by Sam LanierMay 13, 2026, 1:27 am >

The Atlanta Falcons have big plans for wide receiver prospect Zachariah Branch despite his recent arrest in Athens, Georgia, on two misdemeanor charges.

The two charges Branch is facing include obstructing public sidewalks/streets, prowling, and obstruction of a law enforcement officer. He was booked at 1:26 a.m. and released at 3:44 a.m., posting a $39 bond, according to the Athens Clarke County arrest log.

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The former USC Trojan and Georgia Bulldog was drafted by the Falcons soon after the incident.

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According to the police report, Branch failed “to comply with multiple verbal lawful commands” while blocking a sidewalk.

The police were called because of a large crowd that formed outside a bar in Athens. “The crowd was blocking the entrance, and individuals were attempting to enter the establishment despite it not being open for entry at that time,” according to the police.

Branch was ranked in the top 100 prospects according to draft expert Mel Kiper Jr. The speedy receiver ran a 4.35 40-yard dash at the NFL combine.