2023 NFL Draft: Brian Branch Works Out With Jaguars' DB Coach at Alabama's Pro Day

Branch could be a leading option at No. 24 overall.

The Jacksonville Jaguars are never shy about showing their pre-draft interest in prospects at pro days, and this year's pro day circuit has been no different. 

The latest player to potentially be flying on the Jaguars' radar? Alabama defensive back Brian Branch, who worked out with Jaguars' cornerbacks coach/passing game coordinator Deshea Townsend at the Crimson Tide's pro day on Thursday. 

Brian Branch spending individual time with the Jags DB coach after the workout. Pick 24? pic.twitter.com/pwRAJeu4Jx

— Billy M (@BillyM_91) March 23, 2023

Simply put, there aren't many better options for the Jaguars at No. 24 overall than Branch. The Jaguars haven't made any improvements to the secondary this offseason, with their only moves being the release of Shaquill Griffin and the re-signings of Tre Herndon and Tevaughn Campbell. 

Cornerback is among the Jaguars' biggest needs enter the late stages of the draft process; specifically nickel cornerback. Branch mostly played in the slot during his college career and projects to be one of the best pure nickel prospects in recent years.

A Georgia native, Branch was one of the nation's top defensive back recruits in the 2020 class. Rated a four-star recruit by 247Sports, Branch was the No. 3 safety prospect in the country. This included a final ranking as the No. 8 player in Georgia and the No. 61 player in the nation.

Branch played right away for the Crimson Tide defense, appearing in 12 games and starting three as a true freshman. He recorded 27 tackles, seven pass breakups and two interceptions. He ended 2020 tied for third in the SEC in passes defended among all freshman defenders.

READ MORE: 2023 NFL Draft: Could Brian Branch Fill the Jaguars' Biggest Need?

Branch appeared in all 15 games for Alabama in 2021, making impact plays in Alabama's biggest games, including six tackles and two pass breakups vs. Cincinnati. He recorded 55 tackles, five for loss and one sack. He also led the team in pass breakups with nine, while adding a fumble recovery.

2022 saw Branch start every single game for Alabama, playing the "star" position in Nick Saban's defense. He was named a second-team All-American by the Associated Press and a second-team All-SEC selection by the AP after recording 90 tackles. This included 14 tackles for loss, three sacks, seven pass breakups, and two interceptions.