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 Branch, a second-round selection in the 2012 NFL Draft from Clemson, struggled in the preseason and early in the regular season.  But through 13 games he is second on the team with four sacks and is behind only end Jason Babin  and tackle Sen’Derrick Marks with 16 quarterback hurries.  

 

While Bradley has talked often about Branch’s effort level improving since being challenged early in the season, defensive line coach Todd Wash said there’s more to the development. “His skill level and fundamentals have improved so much,” Wash said.    “As a pass rusher, he was more of a finesse guy and a one-trick pony.    He’s really started to develop a second move and he has a decent third move that’s starting to develop also.   I just think he has played a lot more and has some confidence.  

He’s maturing. He’s not a Hall of Famer yet, and his maturity has gotten better.”   Branch, who rushes predominately from the right side as the backup “Leo” end/linebacker behind Babin, ranks 11th in the NFL in pressures from the right side according to Pro Football Focus.  

 

“He understands what we expect and he has confidence now,” Wash said. “We have confidence in him. He has confidence in himself. That was a lot of it. He sees himself as a good player now. That goes a long way.”