FOXBOROUGH, Mass. -- The New England Patriots began their Tuesday afternoon practice without starting defensive tackle Alan Branch, which raised questions about his status since he also wasn't spotted at last Thursday's bye-week practice.
Media members were present for stretching and one individual drill before the access period ended. Branch might have showed up at practice after reporters had left, as he isn't believed to be dealing with a serious injury.
Patriots coach Bill Belichick recently said that Branch has been the Patriots' most consistent defensive tackle this season. He started all 16 games and finished with 49 tackles, 3 passes defended and 1.