Zachariah Branch, a projected second-round pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, was arrested early Sunday morning in Georgia.
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The 22-year-old former Georgia wide receiver was detained by Athens-Clarke County police on two misdemeanor obstruction charges.
Branch was booked at 1:26AM before being released just a few hours later on a $39 bond, per jail records.
NFL Draft Prospect Arrested on Obstruction Charges in Georgia
According to the Athens Banner-Herald, Branch faces charges of "obstructing public sidewalks/streets—prowling and obstruction of a law enforcement officer."
While the full incident report has not yet been released, the outlet obtained a summary of events from police.
"At approximately 12:20 a.m., as downtown establishments were closing, a large crowd gathered outside Cloud Bar," the summary read. "Despite the business preparing to close for the evening, individuals continued attempting to enter the premises."
"Officers on scene issued multiple lawful commands directing the crowd to clear the sidewalk. Zacharia Branch was directly addressed by officers and warned to disperse. Mr. Branch refused to comply with these lawful orders."
"As a result, Mr. Branch was arrested and charged with obstruction. He was also cited for obstructing a public sidewalk."
Under Georgia law, obstructing a public sidewalk or street is considered an offense when done intentionally or recklessly.
Arrest Comes Days Before Crucial Draft
Branch was reportedly in Athens for Georgia's spring game on Saturday, where his brother, Zion Branch, plays as a safety.
The timing of the arrest is notable, coming just days before the NFL Draft begins on Thursday, April 23.
Branch had been projected as the No. 53 overall pick in a recent ESPN mock draft.
A highly touted recruit, he ranked sixth nationally in ESPN's 2023 class before beginning his college career at USC.
He played two seasons there before entering the transfer portal and joining Georgia for the 2025 campaign.
During the past season, Branch set a school record with 81 receptions, totaling 811 receiving yards and six touchdowns.
He also impressed at the NFL scouting combine, recording a 4.35-second time in the 40-yard dash, further boosting his draft stock ahead of the big night.
