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Photo of Andre Branch
Grade
79.0 ?
  • 4.70 SEC
    Top Performer
  • 19 REPS
    Top Performer
  • 32.5 INCH
    Top Performer
  • 120.0 INCH
    Top Performer
  • 7.19 SEC
    Top Performer
  • 4.25 SEC
    Top Performer
Blue Star  =  Top Performer
  • 6'4" Height
  • 34" Arm Length
  • 259LBS. Weight
  • 9" Hands

Overview

Branch is a tall, physical and athletic defensive end who could be moved to outside linebacker for a 3-4 team. He possesses the pass rush ability to regularly beat NFL linemen and disrupt the passer, either standing up or with his hand on the ground. This scheme versatility and pass rush ability could help him to be selected as early as the late second round of this year's draft.

Analysis

Strengths

Branch is an athletic big man who has great flexibility, which he uses to dip around lineman and get in the backfield. He has an uncanny ability to defeat blocks and move around lineman, and the burst to close once there. He uses his hands well and sets the edge nicely when working in the run game. His ability to rush the passer is his shining trait and the primary reason for his value.

Weaknesses

Branch is less effective defending the run than he is against the pass. He will play high at times and can get overpowered by two blockers, all the more reason why there are growing discussions of moving him to linebacker at the next level.
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Grade Title Draft (Round) Description
96-100 Future Hall of Famer Top Pick A once-in-a-generation type prospect who could change how his position is played
85-95 Immediate Starter 1st An impact player with the ability/intangibles to become a Pro Bowl player. Expect to start immediately except in a unique situation (i.e. behind a veteran starter).
70-84 Eventual Starter 2nd-3rd A quality player who will contribute to the team early on and is expected to develop into a starter. A reliable player who brings value to the position.
50-69 Draftable Player 4th-7th A prospect with the ability to make team as a backup/role player. Needs to be a special teams contributor at applicable positions. Players in the high range of this category might have long-term potential.
20-49 Free Agent UDFA A player with solid measurables, intangibles, college achievements, or a developing skill that warrants an opportunity in an NFL camp. In the right situation, he could earn a place on a 53-man roster, but most likely will be a practice squad player or a camp body.
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