Georgia Bulldogs wide receiver Zachariah Branch, a former five-star recruit and USC Trojans transfer, has immense potential. Branch has excellent speed and shiftiness, but he was not as productive as he would have liked during his sophomore season in 2024 at USC.
Last year, Branch post 47 receptions for 503 yards and one touchdown. He was only USC’s third-leading receiver. He also recorded two carries for 17 rushing yards, 13 punt returns for 74 yards and five kickoff returns for 105 yards.
Georgia offensive coordinator Mike Bobo will look to get both Branch and versatile wide receiver Dillon Bell the ball in a multitude of different ways.
USA TODAY’s Michael Middlehurst-Schwartz names Branch as a 2026 NFL draft prospect that is poised to rise. Branch is one of just 10 players to make the list.
“The 5-10, 180-pounder will be called on to provide some easy wins in the passing game for expected new starting quarterback Gunner Stockton as part of a remade receiving corps,” said Middlehurst-Schwartz. “If he can re-establish his credentials as an electric playmaker by turning quick hits into long gains against the Southeastern Conference’s top competition, he’ll be firmly on NFL teams’ radar as a potential early pick.”
Branch’s potential is similar to that of former Florida Gators star receiver Percy Harvin. Branch is difficult to tackle in the open field and should get a lot of opportunities in open space with this Georgia offense.
There’s a long way to go before the 2026 draft, but Branch is certainly a candidate to enter the draft after his junior season.
#Georgia #receiver #poised #rise #NFL #draft #prospect
