Andre Branch, Senior, Defensive End, Clemson
Overview:
Andre Branch spent some time waiting behind some very talented pass rushers at Clemson. As a redshirt freshman in 2008 and a sophomore in 2009, Branch failed to even crack the starting lineup. However, that does not mean he did not make an impact. Despite the limited playing time, Branch tallied 11.0 tackles-for-loss in 2008 and 8.0 tackles-for-loss in 2009.
As an upperclassman Branch finally stepped into a starting spot at Clemson’s bandit end position. Playing opposite of Da’Quan Bowers, Branch had plenty of opportunities to make plays. On the year he tallied 55 tackles, 7.5 tackles-for-loss and 5.0 sacks. At 6-5 and 265 pounds, Branch has the size and athleticism to be the latest in a long line of productive Tiger pass rushers.
Final Projection:
Branch has a lot of room to move up draft boards. If he can remain consistent, Branch could be the next Bowers. He has the explosiveness to be a first round selection in the NFL Draft, but he needs to bring it on every play and every game. Branch tends to start a season strong, but falters down the stretch as the competition gets better. He will have to break that habit if he hopes to be a first or second round selection.
1/5/12 Update:
The Clemson defense went out on a low note against West Virginia in the Orange Bowl, but Branch had a fine senior season and is still safely in the second round area for the 2012 NFL Draft. The Tigers obviously had a superb season and while the offense got all the headlines, the defense, led by Branch, was pretty darn good too and deserve some recognition. Branch failed to get consistent pressure in the backfield against WVU, but he was consistent the rest of the season, finishing with 10.5 sacks and 17.0 tackles-for-loss.
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