USC WR Zachariah Branch Enters Transfer Portal with Brother Zion

USC star wide receiver Zachariah Branch is entering the transfer portal after two seasons with the Trojans, and he’s not going alone. Zachariah’s older brother, safety Zion Branch, is also transferring, making them a package deal for any interested programs.

Zachariah Branch, a former five-star recruit, was one of the top-rated players in the Class of 2023. He was ranked No. 7 overall and was the crown jewel of head coach Lincoln Riley’s recruiting efforts at USC. Known for his speed, agility, and playmaking abilities, Branch quickly became a standout on the field.

In his second season, Zachariah led the Trojans with 47 catches for 503 yards and a touchdown. However, USC’s struggles this season limited his opportunities, with several games where he had fewer than 40 receiving yards. Beyond his role as a receiver, Branch made his mark as a return specialist in 2023, racking up nearly 800 return yards and two touchdowns.

Zion Branch who is a talented safety contributed for the Trojans. In the season of 2024 Zion posted 41 tackles a sack, and three passes defended. Zion was a highly regarded recruit from the Class of 2022, ranked No. 58 nationally.

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This is a Tough Season for USC

The departure of Branch brothers shows that this will be a difficult season for USC. The Trojans finished with a disappointing 6-6 record under Riley, including a 4-5 performance in Big Ten play. Many of their losses were close with three decided by three points or fewer.

The transfer portal has hit USC hard, with the program losing 18 players so far, including some of its top talent. Zachariah is currently ranked the No. 3 overall player in the transfer portal and the No. 2 wide receiver, according to 247Sports.

What’s Next for the Branch Brothers?

Zachariah Branch will be one of the most sought-after names in the transfer portal. During his recruitment out of Bishop Gorman High School in Las Vegas, he received offers from powerhouse programs like Alabama, Ohio State, and Oklahoma. Alabama and Oklahoma could once again be strong contenders for his commitment.

For Zion Branch, his defensive skills and experience will make him an attractive option for programs needing safety depth.

Potential Landing Spots

Several schools could emerge as suitors for the Branch brothers. Texas A&M’s wide receivers coach Holmon Wiggins previously recruited Zachariah to Alabama and might try again. Arizona State, under head coach Kenny Dillingham, has successfully integrated former USC players like safety Xavion Alford and could also be in the mix.

So this departure is a loss for USC and a major opportunity for other programs to land two talented players.