Andre Branch

by mercury22nathan Tue Apr 12, 2016 8:50 am

just passing along information because i know so little about this guy's play, but it appears the Phins may be relying on him to play a significant role.

One of the key pickups was former Jacksonville Jaguars defensive end Andre Branch, who will have a sizable role to play with 30-plus starters Mario Williams and Cameron Wake. Can Branch set the edge for Miami next season?

I studied Branch’s game tape from last year to get some answers:

Pros: Branch is long and rangy with good size and athleticism. He consistently hustles to the ball -- even when the play isn’t coming his way -- and makes his share of plays on the backside. Branch also doesn’t give up easily when blocked on passing plays and that occasionally led to coverage sacks. He played both left and right defensive end for Jacksonville and brings that versatility to Miami.

Cons: Branch tends to get pushed off the ball against the run, particularly against zone-blocking schemes. The Dolphins were ranked 28th against the run last season and need Branch to be more stout and consistent in setting the edge. Branch doesn’t have a variety of pass-rush moves and can be predictable. He also has a penchant for roughing the passer penalties because he was a couple steps late or doesn’t recognize when to let up after the ball is released. This could be a coaching point for Branch this offseason.

Overall, Branch can be a solid pickup if he’s coached well and used properly in new defensive coordinator Vance Joseph’s 4-3 scheme.

http://espn.go.com/blog/miami-dolphins/post/_/id/20598/new-dolphins-de-andre-branch-must-be-consistent-in-sizable-role

by **JMP** Tue Apr 12, 2016 9:13 am

Here's what I question about Branch: the Jaguars are absolutely starving for defensive help, yet Branch - an early 2nd round pick (#38 overall) - was able to earn just 12 starts in 4 seasons, and the Jags didn't want him back. To me, that speaks volumes. I view him as a situational off-the-bench player, and I think he'll be exposed big-time as a starter. I'm not expecting much.

by Birdmond Tue Apr 12, 2016 9:27 am

JMP wrote:Here's what I question about Branch: the Jaguars are absolutely starving for defensive help, yet Branch - an early 2nd round pick (#38 overall) - was able to earn just 12 starts in 4 seasons, and the Jags didn't want him back. To me, that speaks volumes. I view him as a situational off-the-bench player, and I think he'll be exposed big-time as a starter. I'm not expecting much.

They get Fowler back from injury and they'll have the option of drafting Bosa or Buckner. I don't think they're too worried about the DE position.

As for Branch, I think he can come close to Vernon's 7.5 sacks. I think it's an okay signing.

by **JMP** Tue Apr 12, 2016 10:40 am

I'd be fine with Branch as an off-the-bench guy in the rotation...he'd be a big upgrade over someone like Fede, who is basically a waste. But Branch as a starter? I don't see it...he'll be a weak link on the line for opposing offenses to attack, especially in the run game.

by Birdmond Tue Apr 12, 2016 12:56 pm

JMP wrote:I'd be fine with Branch as an off-the-bench guy in the rotation...he'd be a big upgrade over someone like Fede, who is basically a waste. But Branch as a starter? I don't see it...he'll be a weak link on the line for opposing offenses to attack, especially in tohe run game.

I just got a snap chat from the Dolphins and Branch was being interviewed. I have to say, not impressed with the physique. So I may have switch my position on Branch. Is it really too much to ask for professional athletes to be in the best physical condition possible?

BTW, this is also the reason I'm starting to loathe Jordan Phillips. Based on what I've heard he acts like a 16 year old that won the lottery and is allergic to work. So he's on my list now with Dallas Thomas, Earl Mitchell and Pouncey.

by finfanatic Tue Apr 12, 2016 2:41 pm

Branch? Meh...

If he gets anywhere CLOSE to being as effective as Vernon, I will be Shocked..SHOCKED I SAY!

Jordan Phillips...the big knock on him coming out of college was he did not give maximum effort on every play. So why be surprised after he gets some moolah that he decides to not give it his maximum effort in the NFL. There was a chance he would be a good player, but there is also a chance the Phins let his lazy arse go too IMHO.

by **JMP** Tue Apr 12, 2016 2:46 pm

Birdmond wrote:I just got a snap chat from the Dolphins and Branch was being interviewed. I have to say, not impressed with the physique. So I may have switch my position on Branch. Is it really too much to ask for professional athletes to be in the best physical condition possible?

BTW, this is also the reason I'm starting to loathe Jordan Phillips. Based on what I've heard he acts like a 16 year old that won the lottery and is allergic to work. So he's on my list now with Dallas Thomas, Earl Mitchell and Pouncey.

It truly is amazing. These guys are getting paid mountains of money to be professional athletes...the key word being "professional". Staying in top physical condition should be their first priority.

On Jordan Phillips - I remember hearing some things about his poor work ethic heading into the draft. Probably why he was still available for the Phins in the 2nd round.

by Sponsored content

Andre Branch

Andre Branch

Re: Andre Branch

Re: Andre Branch

Re: Andre Branch

Re: Andre Branch

Re: Andre Branch

Re: Andre Branch

Re: Andre Branch