Zachariah Branch Shines: Scouting Report from Georgia’s Conference Championship

Zachariah Branch, a talented wide receiver from Georgia, is attracting attention ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft. His impressive skill set and performances position him among the top prospects in college football.

Zachariah Branch’s College Career Highlights

Branch’s college journey began as a five-star recruit in the 2023 class. After joining the USC Trojans, he quickly made a name for himself as a dynamic playmaker. In his freshman year, he scored three touchdowns and excelled as a return specialist. His ability to contribute in various roles earned him the prestigious Jet Award for the best return man.

In 2024, USC decided to utilize Branch primarily on offense. This decision proved effective, allowing him to showcase his skills further. However, seeking more opportunities, Branch transferred to Georgia, where he aimed to compete for a spot in the College Football Playoff.

Exceptional 2025 Season

During the 2025 season, Branch recorded impressive statistics across 12 regular-season games. He achieved:

• 68 receptions
• 691 receiving yards
• Four touchdowns

This performance marked career-highs for Branch, notably including a standout game against Florida, where he caught 10 passes for over 100 yards. His versatility as a receiver has become an essential aspect of his profile.

Physical Attributes and Skill Set

Measuring 5’10” and weighing 180 pounds, Branch combines a wiry build with elite explosiveness. He possesses incredible foot speed and short-area quickness, making defenders struggle to contain him. Notably, Branch has been clocked at speeds exceeding 23 MPH.

His ability to make quick yardage after the catch (RAC) and evade defenders highlights his potential as a dangerous target. While he has shown limitations against press coverage, his understanding of off-man and zone defenses is commendable. His body control and ability to high-point challenging catches further enhance his overall receiver profile.

2025 Performance Highlights

Branch’s performances during the 2025 season showcased his dynamic abilities. Key highlights include:

• Eight catches and 68 yards against Mississippi State
• A touchdown that exemplified his explosive RAC ability

Despite Georgia’s inconsistent passing attack, Branch’s metrics reflect his effectiveness as a receiver. He holds the sixth-highest WR Impact score in the nation, according to PFSN, and has impressive efficiency metrics, including:

• 2.68 yards of RAC over expectation
• 14.29% catch rate over expectation
• 2.68 yards per route run
• 0.57 expected points added (EPA) per reception

Draft Outlook and Projections

As the 2026 NFL Draft approaches, Branch is currently ranked No. 101 among prospects. His average draft position (ADP) stands at 101.2 as of December 6, indicating he is projected to be selected in the middle rounds. This positioning reflects consistent value among scouts and evaluators.

Although perceived as a potential gadget player, Branch exhibits traits that could make him a versatile offensive weapon in the right system. His special teams value and offensive capabilities might exceed expectations once he transitions to the professional level.

Conclusion

Zachariah Branch is poised to make a significant impact in the 2026 NFL Draft. With his exceptional college performances and skill set, he shows promise as a dynamic player ready to take on the challenges of professional football. As he continues to develop, evaluators will closely watch his progress leading up to the draft.