Branch's Seattle struggles continue
Deion Branch is consistently among the most overrated players in fantasy football, but that's going to change in 2008. He may barely be drafted at all, if he misses the first month of the season or more with a torn ACL, as the Seahawks fear.
One of the most famous receivers of all-time without a 1,000-yard season, Branch has missed 15 games in his six-year career, and played at less than 100% in many others. He's one of the smartest and quickest receivers in the NFL, but doesn't handle contact well. The Seahawks gave up a first-round pick to acquire him, plus handed him a huge contract, but they shouldn't have expected him to be a true number one receiver. He's just a nice piece to the puzzle.
Branch's injury makes it more important that Seattle re-sign D.J. Hackett to a long-term deal or use the franchise tag on him. Both Nate Burleson and Bobby Engram enjoyed resurgent seasons, but the Seahawks don't want to enter 2008 with them atop the depth chart. Hackett can be in the top slot, and the others will fall into place. Branch can work back into the mix slowly while Hackett benefits.
Branch has averaged 51 catches for 693 yards, four scores, and 12.5 games player per-season since joining the Seahawks. Those averages should only decline next year.
Comments
I have long been a DJ Hackett backer- he may be immense next year and be as high as a top 10-15 WR - he reminds me very much of TJ Housh. Great player to grab.
Posted by: scott l | January 17, 2008 03:06 PM
I completely concur with you on this (fact). He is from the Larry Brown and Dexter Jackson family of Super Bowl MVP's to cash in on their success and completely flop after that. Seattle gave up way to much in draft picks and money. He is no more than a slot reciever that will hold back the `Hawks offense for years to come.
Posted by: steve montgomery | January 17, 2008 10:56 PM