2023 mock NFL Draft 2.0: Fallout from free agency wave and NFL Combine
Brian Branch. 15. player. 829. . Safety. Crimson Tide
On the clock: NFL Draft Pick No. 15: Green Bay Packers – Brian Branch, Safety, Alabama
Mock Draft 1.0 – Brian Branch, Safety, Alabama
Perhaps the Green Bay Packers have been distracted by the impending trade of their franchise quarterback, but they’ve been shockingly silent in free agency. While big signings aren’t generally the style of the Packers, they’ve been desperate for help at safety.
Brian Branch is the top safety prospect in the draft. While not a blue-chip safety, he’s still a strong player who can replace either the departing Adrian Amos or first-round bust Darnell Savage.
Brian Branch has been really impressive at the NFL Combine. He’s solidified himself as a Top 15 pick. #NFLCombine #RollTide #AlabamaFootball
— Justin Riley (@JustinRiley7) March 4, 2023
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Brian Branch is one of the more versatile prospects in the draft this season, being able to play either safety position, the nickel role or even as a linebacker. Branch recorded 90 tackles, three sacks, two interceptions and seven passes while playing both as a safety and nickelback.
As you would expect from an Alabama product, Branch is an intelligent player who can read the quarterback and make plays. He can be trusted as an eighth defender in the box with his strong tackling, and flashed blitzing skills with the aforementioned three sacks.
While it might be fair to say Branch could be a tweener with no natural position in the NFL, it shouldn’t be hard for him to find a spot with the Packers.