Alan Branch doesn't make trip to Tampa

The choppy start to the 2017 season for the Patriots just keeps on going.

Latest drama: Alan Branch, who received a contract extension in the offseason, did not make the trip for tonight's game against the Buccaneers, a league source confirmed.

ESPN's Mike Reiss first reported the news.

BSJ Analysis

This isn't overly surprising. After playing terrible in the opener against the Chiefs, Branch was basically benched against the Saints and has been in a reserve role in the past two games. The Patriots made a similar move with Jabaal Sheard last season, and he stuck around.

We'll have to see how Branch responds. If he doesn't, the Patriots will likely trade or release him.

Branch received a two-year, $8.45 million extension in March that included $3 million in guarantees. There are per-game roster bonuses, so he's not getting one this week.