The college football season is over for the Georgia Bulldogs after a tough, gut-wrenching loss to the Ole Miss Rebels in the Sugar Bowl quarterfinal of the College Football Playoffs. Because the season is now over for the Dawgs, that means it’s officially transfer portal and NFL draft declaration season.
For Georgia, they usually see a vast amount of roster turnover, whether it be losing players to the NFL draft or gaining talent in the transfer portal. The Bulldogs have already made one big move by gaining a commitment from safety Khalil Barnes from Clemson, but Georgia was dealt tough news on Monday when standout receiver Zachariah Branch decided to declare for the NFL Draft.
Georgia Bulldogs Lose Zachariah Branch to NFL Draft
In what was a move that most Georgia fans expected, Zachariah Branch has decided to forego his senior season in college and take his chances in the NFL Draft. And those chances are pretty good, as Branch is already being named a top wideout option for NFL teams in April.
As many athletes do when they make this huge announcement, Zachariah Branch took to social media to announce his farewell from the University of Georgia.
GettyNEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – JANUARY 01: Zachariah Branch #1 of the Georgia Bulldogs celebrates a touchdown during the fourth quarter against the Ole Miss Rebels during the 2025 College Football Playoff Quarterfinal at the Allstate Sugar Bowl at Caesars Superdome on January 01, 2026 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images)
First, Branch thanks his coaches and the Trojan nation for his time at USC before UGA. Next, Zachariah Branch sends a heartfelt message to head coach Kirby Smart and OC Mike Bobo for the”trust, leadership, and mentorship they provided him in his one season at UGA.
Lastly, Branch thanks DAWGNATION for their unwavering support throughout the season.
According to Pete Thamel and NFL draft experts, Branch projects as a round-one receiver and the No. 4 overall receiver.
Zachariah Branch’s College Career Comes To An End
This announcement, paired with Georgia football’s Sugar Bowl loss, means that Zachariah Branch’s collegiate career has come to an end.
And what a good one it was. In one season with UGA, Branch hauled in 81 catches (to lead the NCAA) for 811 yards and six touchdowns. He had nearly 40 more receptions than the next highest Georgia pass-catcher.
All-in-all, Branch played 37 total games over three seasons and recorded 1,634 receiving yards and nine touchdowns.
After being a standout recruit, Branch really made his name with the Georgia Bulldogs in 2025. He is extremely elusive with the ball in his hands and is best when his QB gets him the ball quickly and out in space.
He’s a 5-10 wideout that weighs in at 180 pounds, which might be considered a bit small for an NFL wide receiver, but his speed, hands, and of course, production on the field will all lead to Branch being featured in an NFL organization in 2026.
Georgia Bulldogs Dealt Unfortunate News on 1,635-Yard Receiver