5 dream first round picks for the Buffalo Bills in 2023 NFL Draft

Bijan Robinson (Photo by Tim Warner/Getty Images)
Bijan Robinson (Photo by Tim Warner/Getty Images) /
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Brian Branch (Mandatory Credit: Andrew Wevers-USA TODAY Sports) /

Brian Branch

The Buffalo Bills appear set to close a chapter at the safety position with Jordan Poyer set to go into free agency. Recently, Poyer noted that the two sides have yet to have any discussions about a new contract and while there is a chance to use the franchise tag, it seems unlikely considering the contract that comes with that.

If the Buffalo Bills want to address the safety position early than Brian Branch would be a great pick to pair for one season with Micah Hyde before he takes over as the top safety with Hyde’s contract set to expire after the 2023 season.

Brian Branch was with the Alabama Crimson Tide for the past three seasons and was the starter for the past two. In total, Branch has 172 total tackles, 19.5 tackles for a loss, four sacks, three interceptions, and 23 passes defended.

He is similar to Poyer and Hyde in that he is a versatile safety that can support against the run with sound tackling but also drop back into coverage, either covering tight ends or running backs or even playing that deep safety. This would be a great fit for this defense and help bring some stability for the foreseeable future.