The Washington Commanders could actually use their third-round pick to bring a starter to the offense. According to The Athletic’s Nicki Jhabvala, the Washington Commanders might have the opportunity to acquire University of Georgia wideout Zachariah Branch on Day 2. Jhabvala touted the Georgia standout’s abilities.
“A one-year starter after transferring from USC who spent most of his snaps for the Bulldogs in the slot, Branch led the SEC with 81 catches and led the FBS with an 87.1 catch rate last year.”
81 catches for any college team deserve celebration. However, playing in the SEC for a prestigious team like Georgia should attract attention. Branch operated as the deep threat and possession receiver, bailing quarterback Gunner Stockton out when the defense pressured him.
GettyGeorgia WR Zachariah Branch
Matching Branch’s Speed Against Depth Issues
The Commanders need an infusion of speed at the receiver position. Terry McLaurin possesses above-average speed, but his style of running is not conducive to earning the label of a burner. Meanwhile, Branch can leave corners in his wake with an explosive first step and the ability to bound away from them.
“He boasts exceptional speed (4.35 40) and can collect yards after the catch (averaged 7.8 YAC per catch).”
Although this may be true, the quality of Branch’s catches needs further explanation. According to Pro Football Focus, 60% of his receptions occurred behind the line of scrimmage. Last year, the Commanders employed Deebo Samuel, who replicated similar stats. Yet, Branch offers far more burst and the ability to separate.
GettyGeorgia wideout Zachariah Branch
Playing Opposite McLaurin and Benefiting Daniels
Unlike Indiana’s Elijah Surratt, who relies on power and brute force, Branch will not pose a red zone challenge for defenses. However, that does not mean he cannot thrive in a capacity for the Commanders. With nimble feet and a change of direction, crossing routes could force defenses into difficult situations.
For example, pairing McLaurin on the same side on the field, with Branch in the slot, could immediately work. For instance, Branch running an out while McLaurin drives down on a post means one defender will need to scrape under and avoid contact. If they don’t, one of the two will spring open.
GettyUGA wide receiver Zachariah Branch
Can Washington Ignore Branch’s Recent Arrest?
Last week, Branch was arrested in Athens, Ga. Jahbvala discusses why.
“Branch was arrested last Sunday in Georgia on two misdemeanor charges of obstructing public sidewalks/streets — prowling and obstruction of a law enforcement officer.”
A few points need clarification. First, over the past five seasons, the Athens Police Department and the University of Georgia have remained in constant contact regarding player arrests. Some of them involve driving while intoxicated and even vehicular manslaughter. However, a jaywalking offense does not enter the realm of criminality. Yet in the image-conscious NFL, any hint of arrest could scare teams.
The Commanders, possibly benefitting from a misdemeanor, could land Branch on Day 2. While he isn’t a full-time outside wide receiver, playing the slot would allow Jayden Daniels more options. Pairing him with Chig Okonkwo on the inside pressures defenses to use more competent corners than they actually have.
Furthermore, Branch opens up the run game with jet sweep and orbit motion out of the backfield. Most importantly, the team could either stay with the status quo with the picks or trade down and gather more, which could include Branch.
Like Heavy Sports’s content? Be sure to follow us.
This article was originally published on Heavy Sports
The post Commanders Encouraged to Turn Heads With Risky WR Move appeared first on Heavy Sports.