The Jacksonville Jaguars entered the 2012 NFL Draft with two glaring needs, wide receiver and defensive end. On the first night of the draft, the Jaguars moved up to grab wide receiver Justin Blackmon. And at the top of the second round, Gene Smith and company have addressed the other glaring weakness, grabbing Andre Branch, the best defensive end left on the board.
2012 NFL Draft: Jacksonville Jaguars address pass rush in Round 2, select Andre Branch
While many consider Smith to be a guy who drafts the best available player, the first two Jaguars picks of the 2012 NFL Draft have made it apparent that need is certainly a factor in Smith’s decisions.
Branch is primarily a speed rusher, and was one of the leaders on a very talented Clemson defense this past season. Below, check out what Dan Kadar had to say about Branch in his scouting report.
Branch was the leader of a talented Clemson defense in 2011. He’s one of the better speed rushers in this year’s draft, but doesn’t offer a lot as a power rusher. Because of that, he’ll need to be put in the right scheme that can take advantage of his abilities. He should be able to transition nicely to linebacker because of his range. Branch played the Bandit position at Clemson, which asked him to play with his hand down and in the two-point stance.
For more on the Jacksonville Jaguars, check out Big Cat Country.
See More:
