Branch was reinstated from his team suspension on Thursday, Field Yates of ESPN.com reports.

EDGE Analysis

Branch reportedly picked up the suspension for a violation of team rules, although specifics were never released. After nearly a week of being on suspension, the Patriots opted to reinstate him Thursday, which means he should take on his normal role as a key contributor on the defensive line. Branch is coming off a 2015 campaign where he posted 35 tackles, one sack and two forced fumbles.