Brian Branch

Evaluation

Jeremy Betz: Brian Branch is the total package at Safety, with the versatility to play multiple positions in the secondary. In deep coverage, Branch displays impressive eye discipline and range. He has good ball skills and excels in man coverage against WRs and TEs on the perimeter. Branch is even better in a hybrid LB role as an enforcer in run support. He can really lower the boom on RBs in the hole and on crossing routes over the middle. He has good speed and athleticism to run with more athletic pass catchers. What separates Branch from the other safeties in this class though is his work as a blitzer. Branch diagnoses the play well and can affect QBs in the backfield and track scrambling passers with ease. Probably a mid to late 1st round pick in 2023, Branch can start right away and his experience in a pro-style defensive scheme means the transition to the NFL should go smoothly.