Legal proceedings against Atlanta Falcons first-year wide receiver Zachariah Branch have concluded with prosecutors dropping all misdemeanor obstruction charges, his legal representative confirmed Wednesday.
The former Georgia player was taken into custody on April 19 in Athens, Ga., facing allegations of obstructing a police officer and blocking public sidewalks and streets.
Days later, Atlanta chose Branch during the third round of the 2026 NFL Draft, making him the 79th overall selection.
“After reviewing all evidence, including videos, and discussing the case with us, the State agreed to dismiss all charges against Mr. Branch,” attorney Kim Stephens said in a statement, per The Athletic. “Zachariah cooperated fully with law enforcement and did not commit a crime on the night of his arrest and never should have been arrested. We are glad this matter is over and that Mr. Branch’s excellent reputation and good name restored.”
During his single campaign at Georgia in 2025, after transferring from Southern California, Branch topped the Bulldogs with a program-best 81 catches for 811 yards and six scores. Georgia finished 12-2 but fell 39-34 to Ole Miss in the Sugar Bowl.
Across his three collegiate seasons, with his first two at USC, Branch accumulated 159 catches for 1,634 yards and nine touchdowns over 37 contests.
