With a November 1 deadline for resolving pending DUI charges to avoid the mandatory two-game suspension under the new substance-abuse policy, newly-signed Patriots defensive lineman Alan Branch has done just that.
Per a source with knowledge of the situation, Branch has wrapped up the charges that followed an August arrest. The incident prompted the Bills to cut him.
The Patriots didn’t mandate resolution of the case before signing him, but the source says the Pats preferred it.
Branch will now be subject to a two-game fine, with a maximum forfeiture of $50,000. Barring unusual circumstances, Branch won’t be suspended.