Education
The Raiders chose to draft Branch not only by his defensive back skills, but also his importance as a return specialist, due to the departure of all-time return leader Chris Carr.
The Raiders chose to draft Branch not only by his defensive back skills, but also his importance as a return specialist, due to the departure of all-time return leader Chris Carr.
He was drafted by the Oakland Raiders in the fourth round of the 2008 NFL Draft and has also played for the Kansas City Chiefs. He played college football at Connecticut. 2008 NFL Combine
Oakland Raiders
Branch was selected by the Raiders in the 4th round.
During his rookie season on September 14, 2008, Branch intercepted Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Damon Huard for his first career interception.
Branch earned his first career start in the 2009 season opener on September 14 in a Monday night game against the San Diego Chargers, but was placed on season-ending injured reserve on November 5 with a shoulder injury. He went on to have a breakout season for the Raiders in 2009 as the starting strong safety in all 16 games, finishing with 98 unassisted tackles and 26 assists, two forced fumbles, and a sack.
During the 2010 NFL season, he again started in all 16 games for an 8-8 team, recording 81 unassisted tackles and 23 assists. In March 2012, the Raiders placed a franchise tag on Branch.
On July 14, 2012, Branch sign a four-year, $26.6 million contract with the Raiders.
On November 9, Branch was fined $15,750 for unnecessary roughness against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Kansas City Chiefs
On March 10, 2015, Branch signed a one-year contract with the Kansas City Chiefs. Arizona Cardinals
On March 9, 2016, Branch signed a two-year contract with the Arizona Cardinals worth $8 million with $5 million guaranteed until 2018.