Miami Dolphins defensive end Andre Branch is getting his payday. Branch had 5.5 sacks and 12 hits during his first year in Miami, per NFL GSIS, and is now set to sign a long-term deal according to Ian Rapoport.
Source: The #Dolphins are bringing back pass-rusher Andre Branch on a long-term deal. They keep one of their own.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 8, 2017
The #Dolphins are signing pass-rusher Andre Branch to a 3-year contract worth $27M, source said. Cashes in after a resurgence.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 8, 2017
Branch’s resume is a mixed bag. The pass-rushing numbers are solid, if not staggering, but Branch value wasn’t exactly as a well-rounded player. A further look shows that his run defense grade from PFF was just 49.5 and that opposing teams averaged 5.74 adjusted line yards when rushing to the offensive left end — or the defensive right, where Branch usually lined up.
That doesn’t mean Branch isn’t a productive player. The pass rushing-ability is there, and alongside Ndamukong Suh and Cameron Wake, he’ll produce.