Tyvon Branch will meet with KC

[ShowtimeSBMVP]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" lang="en"><p>Former Raiders S Tyvon Branch to the Chiefs. One-year deal.</p>&mdash; Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) <a href="https://twitter.com/MikeGarafolo/status/575302867168292864">March 10, 2015</a></blockquote>
<script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

[Jimmya]

Hmmm....would this be a good fit?

[ILChief]

I will save everyone a lot of time:

If we sign him, he sucks and Dorsey overpaid

If we don't, he is the best safety since Ed Reed and Dorsey is a fool for missing out on him

[ShowtimeSBMVP]

I will save everyone a lot of time:

If we sign him, he sucks and Dorsey overpaid

If we don't, he is the best safety since Ed Reed and Dorsey is a fool for missing out on him

:LOL:

[Iconic]

I will save everyone a lot of time:

If we sign him, he sucks and Dorsey overpaid

If we don't, he is the best safety since Ed Reed and Dorsey is a fool for missing out on him

tl;dr /thread

[Pasta Little Brioni]

I will save everyone a lot of time:

If we sign him, he sucks and Dorsey overpaid

If we don't, he is the best safety since Ed Reed and Dorsey is a fool for missing out on him

Thread over

[BigMeatballDave]

I will save everyone a lot of time:

If we sign him, he sucks and Dorsey overpaid

If we don't, he is the best safety since Ed Reed and Dorsey is a fool for missing out on him

LMAO

[Just Passin' By]

Lots of talent and speed, but he's played only 5 games in the past 2 seasons.

[Titty Meat]

Dudes a broke dick

[MotherfuckerJones]

Buy low high reward.

[Bootlegged]

He will be accepting a 3 year, $14m deal. Until Elway calls.

[lawrenceRaider]

Lots of talent and speed, but he's played only 5 games in the past 2 seasons.

Branch doesn't seem to be able to stay healthy. Also doesn't quite play up to his physical abilities when he is on the field. With Oakland's luck, KC will sign him and he'll stay healthy and put his talent together for a few pro-bowl seasons.

[Just Passin' By]

Branch doesn't seem to be able to stay healthy. Also doesn't quite play up to his physical abilities when he is on the field. With Oakland's luck, KC will sign him and he'll stay healthy and put his talent together for a few pro-bowl seasons.

It won't happen, because they re-signed Chung and Branch will probably be asking for too much money, but I'd love to see the Patriots grab him. I'd love to see what a secondary of

Revis
McCourty
Branch
Browner
Arrington

could do to opposing passing games.

[MotherfuckerJones]

It won't happen, because they resigned Chung and Branch will probably be asking for too much money, but I'd love to see the Patriots grab him. I'd love to see what a secondary of

Revis
McCourty
Branch
Browner
Arrington

could do to opposing passing games.

What's it like to win a playoff game? :banghead:

[Sorter]

Do want.

[Chiefnj2]

Parker not getting paid in KC?

['Hamas' Jenkins]

Given what Mauga got, Dorsey will probably offer Branch 5/150.

[Sorter]

Given what Mauga got, Dorsey will probably offer Branch 5/150.

No longer want.

[NJChiefsFan]

I will save everyone a lot of time:

If we sign him, he sucks and Dorsey overpaid

If we don't, he is the best safety since Ed Reed and Dorsey is a fool for missing out on him

tl;dr /thread

Given what Mauga got, Dorsey will probably offer Branch 5/150.

LMAOLMAO

Thread can only go down from here.

[Marcellus]

I will save everyone a lot of time:



If we sign him, he sucks and Dorsey overpaid



If we don't, he is the best safety since Ed Reed and Dorsey is a fool for missing out on him


Damn beat me to it.

[Hammock Parties]

TYVON BRANCH! ELITE SAFETY! HE WILL REPLACE ERIC BERRY AND WE WILL WRECK HO QBS ACROSS THE LEAGUE!

#ChiefsFreeAgencySuperBowl

[BigChiefFan]

Lots of talent and speed, but he's played only 5 games in the past 2 seasons.

Sounds like a Dorsey plan.

[In58men]

Buy low high reward.

Typical Chief analyst

[petegz28]

I will save everyone a lot of time:

If we sign him, he sucks and Dorsey overpaid

If we don't, he is the best safety since Ed Reed and Dorsey is a fool for missing out on him

LMAO

Rep

[O.city]

Wouldn't hurt

[saphojunkie]

TYVON BRANCH! ELITE SAFETY! HE WILL REPLACE ERIC BERRY AND WE WILL WRECK HO QBS ACROSS THE LEAGUE!

#ChiefsFreeAgencySuperBowl

Don't be a dork.

[tecumseh]

He will give the secondary the identity they lack. Not that that's necessarily a good thang.

[Hammock Parties]

Don't be a dork.

It is too late for me, son.

http://m4.i.pbase.com/g1/29/696529/2/105799714.qXVRp9z7.jpg

[saphojunkie]

LMAO

[OnTheWarpath15]

Indy has a fuckton of cap space, so unless he wants to get paid with BBQ, we're probably out.

[siberian khatru]

I will save everyone a lot of time:

If we sign him, he sucks and Dorsey overpaid

If we don't, he is the best safety since Ed Reed and Dorsey is a fool for missing out on him

KC Titus would be proud.

[BossChief]

Indy has a ****ton of cap space, so unless he wants to get paid with BBQ, we're probably out.

Probably right.

Unless we severely overpay in guarantees and that's not wise

Hell of a player, though.

[kcchiefsus]

It won't happen, because they re-signed Chung and Branch will probably be asking for too much money, but I'd love to see the Patriots grab him. I'd love to see what a secondary of

Revis
McCourty
Branch
Browner
Arrington

could do to opposing passing games.

Nobody gives a shit faggot.

[RobBlake]

It won't happen, because they re-signed Chung and Branch will probably be asking for too much money, but I'd love to see the Patriots grab him. I'd love to see what a secondary of

Revis
McCourty
Branch
Browner
Arrington

could do to opposing passing games.

def rivals LOB

[R8RFAN]

I hate that he is gone but he just stays hurt all the time

[ShowtimeSBMVP]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" lang="en"><p>I can confirm the report that S Tyvon Branch has a visit set up with the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Chiefs?src=hash">#Chiefs</a>.</p>&mdash; Terez A. Paylor (@TerezPaylor) <a href="https://twitter.com/TerezPaylor/status/574323150252417024">March 7, 2015</a></blockquote>
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[O.city]

Keep him in kc.

[DaneMcCloud]

Who cares.

The guy is 28 years old and has appeared in 19 games in the past three seasons and only 5 games since 2013.

Chiefsplanet: The place where people go nuts for crappy free agents.

[BossChief]

If we give big money to him, the medical staff BETTER be right because going from Parker to Branch would be very risky.

[O.city]

If Parker is gonna get 6 mil, I'd pass on that obviously, only yes to Branch if sig less.

[Titty Meat]

Branch is the younger brother of Mike Brown in football terms.

[thabear04]

Why are we going to sign another cast off from the Raiders. How great did that signing with Standford Routt worked out.

[Easy 6]

Count me in the "pass" crowd.

Safety isnt the pressing need that other spots are, anyway.

[Iconic]

So should we officially put to rest any bit of hope we had for Sanders Commings?

[Easy 6]

So should we officially put to rest any bit of hope we had for Sanders Commings?

Per Mortensen, 3 minutes ago - Chiefs safety Sanders Commings has broken his skeleton in a freak accident at his home.

[58-4ever]

I'd rather have Ron Parker.

[Iconic]

Per Mortensen, 3 minutes ago - Chiefs safety Sanders Commings has broken his skeleton in a freak accident at his home.

LMAO Sad part is this is totally believable given his history.

[MIAdragon]

I'd rather have Ron Parker.

Shut your whore mouth

[BossChief]

I'd rather have Ron Parker.

Me2

The guy is gonna be a bargain for someone. I hope we can find a way to get him back.

[O.city]

Parker at 6 million isn't a bargain.

[RealSNR]

I'm not a fan at all of spending an extra $15 million per year just to keep last year's starting C and FS who have each only had one good season.

And that's if you consider Parker's last year "good"

[O.city]

I'm not a fan at all of spending an extra $15 million per year just to keep last year's starting C and FS who have each only had one good season.

And that's if you consider Parker's last year "good"

I think both are ascending players who can get better. But at some point, guys just outprice themselves. Even with both improving, I think you could potentially replace said production cheaper.

[Hammock Parties]

I'm not a fan at all of spending an extra $15 million per year just to keep last year's starting C and FS who have each only had one good season.

And that's if you consider Parker's last year "good"

We may as well blow up the entire roster at this point.

Trade Houston for two 1sts, get a QB, start from scratch.

Being mediocre isn't going to get us anywhere.

[DTLB58]

I'd rather have Ron Parker.

:thumb:

[Jiu Jitsu Jon]

Why are we going to sign another cast off from the Raiders. How great did that signing with Standford Routt worked out.

Kevin Boss and the Concussions Sing the Classics

[Iconic]

Kevin Boss and the Concussions Sing the Classics

You know Boss was actually a really good TE until Cassel murdered him.

[tecumseh]

So many holes. If they aren't going to sign Parker , then draft his replacement. This nickle and dime crap, jeeesh.

[Sorter]

Who cares.

The guy is 28 years old and has appeared in 19 games in the past three seasons and only 5 games since 2013.

Chiefsplanet: The place where people go nuts for crappy free agents.

The health issues are legitimate but he's a good player. I'd like to see us take a chance on him in addition to resigning Coleman.

[mcaj22]

Coleman is getting a lot of interest since he played pretty well for us and is still young

I think we lose Parker AND Coleman and will have to retool our safeties for another season in a row.

[Sorter]

Coleman is getting a lot of interest since he played pretty well for us and is still young

I think we lose Parker AND Coleman and will have to retool our safeties for another season in a row.

*Bangs head against wall*

Would have been nice if they'd kept Bradley McDougald. Fuckers.

The Bucs reportedly believe SS Bradley McDougald has a chance to emerge as an elite player.
McDougald, a 2013 UDFA out of Kansas, started the final five games of last season in the wake of the Mark Barron trade. During that time, he totaled 36 tackles, one interception and five pass breakups. Elite is a strong word, but McDougald showed signs of being a plus player at strong safety in Lovie Smith's Cover-2.

http://www.rotoworld.com/player/nfl/8963/bradley-mcdougald

[Bowser]

So essentially Branch is Bob Sanders part deux? Indy can have him.

[Sorter]

So essentially Branch is Bob Sanders part deux? Indy can have him.

Branch signs with Indy, 1 year deal.
Chiefs meet up with Indy in playoffs.
Branch locks down Kelce, Chiefs lose.
Colts win SB.
Branch signs with KC the next year for 8M/year.
Branch gets hurt after signing.
Sanders Commings starts, plays well for a quarter.
Chiefs extend Commings for 6M/year.
Sanders Commings gets hurt the next game.


Because we are the Chiefs

[Bowser]

Branch signs with Indy, 1 year deal.
Chiefs meet up with Indy in playoffs.
Branch locks down Kelce, Chiefs lose.
Colts win SB.
Branch signs with KC the next year for 8M/year.
Branch gets hurt after signing.
Sanders Commings starts, plays well for a quarter.
Chiefs extend Commings for 6M/year.
Sanders Commings gets hurt the next game.


Because we are the Chiefs

I would laugh at this, but I can actually feel it in my bones that this would happen.

[mcaj22]

*Bangs head against wall*

Would have been nice if they'd kept Bradley McDougald. ****ers.



http://www.rotoworld.com/player/nfl/8963/bradley-mcdougald

I also liked him. I wonder if the safety we got from the Bucs is worth anything, probably not.

[TEX]

The health issues are legitimate but he's a good player. I'd like to see us take a chance on him in addition to resigning Coleman.

:thumb: I completely agree.

[Hammock Parties]

Branch signs with Indy, 1 year deal.
Chiefs meet up with Indy in playoffs.
Branch locks down Kelce, Chiefs lose.
Colts win SB.
Branch signs with KC the next year for 8M/year.
Branch gets hurt after signing.
Sanders Commings starts, plays well for a quarter.
Chiefs extend Commings for 6M/year.
Sanders Commings gets hurt the next game.


Because we are the Chiefs

I like the cut of your jib.

[GloryDayz]

If he can actually come down with and hold on to an INT, that'd be nice...

[The Franchise]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" lang="en"><p>Former <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Raiders?src=hash">#Raiders</a> S Tyvon Branch is visiting the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Chiefs?src=hash">#Chiefs</a> today, source said. They are losing starting SS Ron Parker, this makes sense.</p>&mdash; Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapSheet/status/574958510003245060">March 9, 2015</a></blockquote>
<script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

[ShowtimeSBMVP]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" lang="en"><p>Former <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Raiders?src=hash">#Raiders</a> S Tyvon Branch is visiting the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Chiefs?src=hash">#Chiefs</a> today, source said. They are losing starting SS Ron Parker, this makes sense.</p>&mdash; Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapSheet/status/574958510003245060">March 9, 2015</a></blockquote>
<script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Get it done.

[Easy 6]

Is losing Parker locked in stone?

[The Franchise]

Is losing Parker locked in stone?

Rumor is that he has at least 5-6 teams interested in him right now. He's asking $6 million a year.

My guess is he's gone.

[OldSchool]

Is losing Parker locked in stone?

You want to pay him what he's asking?

[Imon Yourside]

You want to pay him what he's asking?

NO!!!!!!!!!!!

[RealSNR]

*Bangs head against wall*

Would have been nice if they'd kept Bradley McDougald. Fuckers.



http://www.rotoworld.com/player/nfl/8963/bradley-mcdougald

THANK GOD WE HAD KENDRICK LEWIS SUCKING ASS FOR US

:(

[Easy 6]

Rumor is that he has at least 5-6 teams interested in him right now. He's asking $6 million a year.

My guess is he's gone.

You want to pay him what he's asking?

If he isn't budging off that number, then he can gtfo.

I just didn't know that negotiations had come to a standstill.

[Chiefnj2]

Get it done.

Why? 5 games in the last two years?

[RealSNR]

Whether he can stay healthy or not, we may very well need this guy. Excluding Berry, our safeties under contract are currently Hussain Abdullah, Kelcie McCray, and Daniel Sorensen.

All the Jimmie Ward fanboys last spring are looking pretty smart right now

[MIAdragon]

Is losing Parker locked in stone?

Hopefully

[OldSchool]

Who wants to make a bet:

Commings goes on the IR before Branch does.

Branch goes on IR before Commings.

[mcaj22]

this guy probably limped off the plane.

[Sorter]

this guy probably limped off the plane.

We have a medical student on our team; we can rebuild him. Make him stronger, faster.

[RealSNR]

If we sign Darrelle Revis...

Revis
Smith
Gaines
Fleming
Cooper
All the other tag-along drones

We're doing just fine at CB. I would imagine it would behoove us to try to make one of those guys a safety. I don't know who, but CB is where all of our meat is.

[MotherfuckerJones]

We have a medical student on our team; we can rebuild him. Make him stronger, faster.

Bionic branch

[DaKCMan AP]

If we sign Darrelle Revis...



Not happening.

[Easy 6]

Hopefully

Meh, he's a decent safety that can play corner in a pinch, would've preferred to keep him... but just like Hudson, he wants to be paid to a level he hasn't yet attained.

Aint nobody got time for dat.

[DenverChief]

Not happening.

Neither is Maclin....

[DaKCMan AP]

Neither is Maclin....

Are you opposed to the belief that one big time FA acquisition inversely affects the likelihood of a second?

[DenverChief]

Are you opposed to the belief that one big time FA acquisition inversely affects the likelihood of a second?


What I am is tired of all the negativity - the Chiefs have just as good of a chance of signing Revis as the the Jets and the Pats do.

[Just Passin' By]

What I am is tired of all the negativity - the Chiefs have just as good of a chance of signing Revis as the the Jets and the Pats do.

:spock:

How do you come up with that theory?

[Hootie]

I'd guess Revis ends up signing with the Jets now that McCourtey is back with New England.

Is New England really going to spend $50M on a FS and then turn around and give a CB $15M a year as well?

...that would be shocking to me

[The Franchise]

I'd guess Revis ends up signing with the Jets now that McCourtey is back with New England.

Is New England really going to spend $50M on a FS and then turn around and give a CB $15M a year as well?

...that would be shocking to me

Tom Brady takes a pay cut and makes $2 million a year.

[DaKCMan AP]

What I am is tired of all the negativity - the Chiefs have just as good of a chance of signing Revis as the the Jets and the Pats do.

Salary cap space and organization familiarization have no bearing on the chance of signing Revis? :spock:

[DenverChief]

Salary cap space and organization familiarization have no bearing on the chance of signing Revis? :spock:

So if there is absolutely no way to sign Revis then there is no way to sign Houston either.... yet one is impossible and the other is dumb if they don't do it....

[DaKCMan AP]

So if there is absolutely no way to sign Revis then there is no way to sign Houston either.... yet one is impossible and the other is dumb if they don't do it....

Houston already counts for ~14mil against our cap.

[DenverChief]

Houston already counts for ~14mil against our cap.

Assuming he signs the tender - or he could sign an offer sheet with another team and create cap space thus allowing the Chiefs the ability to sign Revis.

I'm not saying they will have both, but there is a scenario where it is plausble

[DaKCMan AP]

Assuming he signs the tender - or he could sign an offer sheet with another team and create cap space thus allowing the Chiefs the ability to sign Revis.

I'm not saying they will have both, but there is a scenario where it is plausble

No, not assuming he signs the tender. As soon as we tagged him he counted against our cap. Obviously that changes if he's traded to another team.

[Sorter]

http://www.publicationsports.com/cache/image/d0/c7/96b60408b085ca7a64d11c08fd57ebbe_p_vi_9242_1388211605.jpg

This man will magically heal Branch.

[DenverChief]

No, not assuming he signs the tender. As soon as we tagged him he counted against our cap. Obviously that changes if he's traded to another team.

Thats basically what I just said - unless you think that he is going to sit out the entire season or that no other team is going to touch him

[MotherfuckerJones]

http://www.publicationsports.com/cache/image/d0/c7/96b60408b085ca7a64d11c08fd57ebbe_p_vi_9242_1388211605.jpg

This man will magically heal Branch.

Bionic legs bro

[DaKCMan AP]

Thats basically what I just said - unless you think that he is going to sit out the entire season or that no other team is going to touch him

I'm just clarifying that right now he is accounted for in our salary cap at the franchise tag # - not that we'd need to find $14 mil once he signs the tender. That's why I disagree with the premise that because we can sign Houston means we could also sign Revis. Now, if we removed the tag from Houston and he becomes an UFA (clearing ~14 mil of cap space) - then that example would work.

[Mr. Flopnuts]

Parker is going to fall off a cliff in a different scheme. Mark my words.

[MotherfuckerJones]

Parker is going to fall off a cliff in a different scheme. Mark my words.

I was talking with a Bucs fan on Twitter. Said good luck with Parker because he wants him. Fine with paying $6 mil per. I said he can't tackle for shit and have fun overpaying a safety yet again.

[Shox]

I'm not sure I'm loving me some Tyvon Branch, unless he is coming cheap. I don't see that happening if he is a "hot commodity.

BUYER BEWARE!!!

[Red Dawg]

We have a medical student on our team; we can rebuild him. Make him stronger, faster.

Nice

[jd1020]

We have a medical student on our team; we can rebuild him. Make him stronger, faster.

Now that he's finished his rotation in gynecology, I'm hoping he can also help Eric Fisher.

[Sorter]

Now that he's finished his rotation in gynecology, I'm hoping he can also help Eric Fisher.

LMAO.

If not, cyborg Branch could simply beat Eric's legs mercilessly until he improves.

[MotherfuckerJones]

LMAO.

If not, cyborg Branch could simply beat Eric's legs mercilessly until he improves.

Like Jax's arms from the mortal kombat

[DenverChief]

So what's the word in this guy

[Jiu Jitsu Jon]

Can you take Miles Burris while you're at it?

[ShowtimeSBMVP]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" lang="en"><p>Former Raiders S Tyvon Branch to the Chiefs. One-year deal.</p>&mdash; Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) <a href="https://twitter.com/MikeGarafolo/status/575302867168292864">March 10, 2015</a></blockquote>
<script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

[silver5liter]

One year deal, little risk. sounds good to me

[MIAdragon]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" lang="en"><p>Former Raiders S Tyvon Branch to the Chiefs. One-year deal.</p>&mdash; Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) <a href="https://twitter.com/MikeGarafolo/status/575302867168292864">March 10, 2015</a></blockquote>
<script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Thank god, now drop Parker like the duce he is and flush asap.

[ShowtimeSBMVP]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" lang="en"><p>Tyvon Branch&#39;s 1yr deal w/KC could be worth max of $4M. Has base w/ in-game bonuses of $2M</p>&mdash; Jason La Canfora (@JasonLaCanfora) <a href="https://twitter.com/JasonLaCanfora/status/575304511838883840">March 10, 2015</a></blockquote>
<script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

[The Franchise]

Well alrighty then.

[silver5liter]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" lang="en"><p>Tyvon Branch's 1yr deal w/KC could be worth max of $4M. Has base w/ in-game bonuses of $2M</p>&mdash; Jason La Canfora (@JasonLaCanfora) <a href="https://twitter.com/JasonLaCanfora/status/575304511838883840">March 10, 2015</a></blockquote>
<script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

That mean that his cap number will be lower than 2 million or do the game bonus checks count vs the cap as well?

[BigMeatballDave]

Bye, Parker.

[Rausch]

One year deal, little risk. sounds good to me

Yup.

So far Dorsey/FO are playing this great. I can't argue against really any of the moves they've made to this point...

[MotherfuckerJones]

Nice. Hope he stays healthy

[DJ's left nut]

Hard to get too excited either way.

I don't see how a true box safety really fits in this system (Berry could play in the box but could also play in space). Branch is injured...a lot.

At the same price I'd have far preferred Parker but we'll see; they didn't come at the same price so perhaps this is a far more cost-effective signing.

[Strongside]

Very nice. Wonder why only the 1 year deal? Surprised he took that.

[Bootlegged]

Awesome. I just took a RonParker and then read this. Happy Day.

[OldSchool]

Good cheap low-risk deal.

[Rausch]

At the same price I'd have far preferred Parker but we'll see; they didn't come at the same price so perhaps this is a far more cost-effective signing.

If reports are true Parker wanted much more than that...

[BossChief]

Sweet

Hopefully they can bring Parker back, too.

[Easy 6]

One year prove it deal, sounds like a plan.

**** you, Parker.

[wazu]

Very nice. Wonder why only the 1 year deal? Surprised he took that.

He's played in 5 games in the last two years. Probably just happy to find another sucker.

[MotherfuckerJones]

Low risk high reward and potential option for Berrys spot.

[Dante84]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" lang="en"><p>Branch is a box safety, Parker is a free safety. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Chiefs?src=hash">#Chiefs</a> need more bodies at the position, and this year’s draft class is weak.</p>&mdash; Terez A. Paylor (@TerezPaylor) <a href="https://twitter.com/TerezPaylor/status/575303851365916672">March 10, 2015</a></blockquote>
<script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

If so, I don't think this impacts our situation with Parker

[BigMeatballDave]

Sweet

Hopefully they can bring Parker back, too.

I believe this signing means they are not.

[Sorter]

http://i969.photobucket.com/albums/ae175/teh_pwnerer23/tigerfistpump.gif

[Strongside]

Always thought this was a clean hit. Surprised Moeaki didn't die.

<iframe width="420" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/rpfbf4rzZsI" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

[ShowtimeSBMVP]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" lang="en"><p>1-year for over $2M guaranteed. Can be worth up to $4M RT <a href="https://twitter.com/KCChiefs">@KCChiefs</a>: <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Chiefs?src=hash">#Chiefs</a> sign safety Tyvon Branch READ: <a href="http://t.co/BIZaJNwpuB">http://t.co/BIZaJNwpuB</a></p>&mdash; Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapSheet/status/575307296814854145">March 10, 2015</a></blockquote>
<script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

[BigMeatballDave]

Can we sign a vet OL, please?

[In58men]

Hopefully he can stay healthy. If he does dude is damn good.

[Rausch]

Always thought this was a clean hit. Surprised Moeaki didn't die.

<iframe width="420" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/rpfbf4rzZsI" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

With Berry out this secondary needs some nasty in it...

[BossChief]

I believe this signing means they are not.

They play different positions

[BigChiefFan]

The FO is making some damn good moves.

[DaKCMan AP]

Hard to get too excited either way.

I don't see how a true box safety really fits in this system (Berry could play in the box but could also play in space). Branch is injured...a lot.

At the same price I'd have far preferred Parker but we'll see; they didn't come at the same price so perhaps this is a far more cost-effective signing.

He's played in 5 games in the last two years. For the Raiders. Probably just happy to find another sucker.

Hopefully he can stay healthy. If he does dude is damn good.

Per the office Raider fan his injuries are not the nagging/lingering sort. They've been fractured foot, broken arm type injuries.

[DJ's left nut]

They play different positions

Yeah, but Abdullah could play FS, IMO.

The guy was credible enough in coverage to play Nickle effectively for us two years ago; he can play FS if need be. Branch could play SS.

Though ideally we find another guy with coverage skills. I think our pass defense worked as well as it did in large part because of Parker's ability to remove the deep ball. He really did do a great job of keeping plays in front of him. He's proof that you can make a bad CB into a pretty decent coverage safety if you commit to it.

Branch as a starter would seem to mean some changes in how we utilize our safeties/corners and I don't think it would be for the better in the air.

[wazu]

Per the office Raider fan his injuries are not the nagging/lingering sort. They've been fractured foot, broken arm type injuries.

Good to know, although that doesn't rule out "injury-prone". Oh well, if it works it could be a great pick up. Doesn't feel cheap though given our cap situation.

[Dante84]

Per the office Raider fan his injuries are not the nagging/lingering sort. They've been fractured foot, broken arm type injuries.

Fractured foot is about the worst injury you can have as a football player, if its a Lisfranc injury.

Often times a career ender, or production falls off a cliff upon the return.

[The Franchise]

Parker is going to be too expensive for us.

[Strongside]

Fractured foot is about the worst injury you can have as a football player, if its a Lisfranc injury.

Often times a career ender, or production falls off a cliff upon the return.

From an article about he and Rod Streater's injuries: "and while they have seemingly avoided a dreaded Lisfranc injury, they'll still miss the remainder of the regular season."

Would link, but it's broken...I pulled it from google results. Looks like it was not a lisfranc.

[The Franchise]

www.rotoworld.com

Chiefs signed SS Tyvon Branch to a one-year, $2 million contract.

Another $2 million is available in incentives. Riddled by injuries, Branch has only been able to play in five games over the last two seasons. But when healthy, the former college corner has shown serious in-the-box talent. He's an excellent low-risk add for a Chiefs defense that desperately needs safety help with Eric Berry battling cancer and Ron Parker a free agent. Branch's incentives almost certainly hinge on his ability to sustain health, making it a no-lose deal for the Chiefs.

Source:*Ian Rapoport on Twitter

Mar 10 - 10:34 AM

[TribalElder]

Stanford Routt part duex

[Rausch]

Stanford Routt part duex

No...

[lawrenceRaider]

Chiefs sign SS Tyvon Branch to 1-yr, $2M deal

Chiefs signed SS Tyvon Branch to a one-year, $2 million contract.

Another $2 million is available in incentives. Riddled by injuries, Branch has only been able to play in five games over the last two seasons. But when healthy, the former college corner has shown serious in-the-box talent. He's an excellent low-risk add for a Chiefs defense that desperately needs safety help with Eric Berry battling cancer and Ron Parker a free agent. Branch's incentives almost certainly hinge on his ability to sustain health, making it a no-lose deal for the Chiefs.

Source:*Ian Rapoport on Twitter

Mar 10 - 10:34 AM

Great deal for Branch. He's been unable to stay healthy, lots of injuries that are somewhat freak deals. Seems like a really good guy, hard working and all that. If he had signed up with someone else, I'd wish him good luck. Instead, I hope he stays healthy for y'all and that he has poor games against Oakland.

[ShowtimeSBMVP]

Stanford Routt part duex

Funny Branch only got a 1 year deal not 3.

[BigMeatballDave]

Stanford Routt part duex

He was a corner.

[ShowtimeSBMVP]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" lang="en"><p>IF Tyvon Branch can stay healthy, the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Chiefs?src=hash">#Chiefs</a> have signed themselves a very good safety that can do multiple things.</p>&mdash; Louis Riddick (@LRiddickESPN) <a href="https://twitter.com/LRiddickESPN/status/575314728798584832">March 10, 2015</a></blockquote>
<script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

[chiefzilla1501]

Stanford Routt part duex
Um... Stanford Routt was a flat out expensive bust. Branch is cheap and brought in as either quality depth or as a stopgap until berry is back. Anyone complaining is bitching just to bitch.

[Reerun_KC]

He was a corner.And a former Raider...

[the Talking Can]

ok

[ILChief]

Goodbye Ron Parker

[Mr. Laz]

Michael DeVito ‏@MikeDeVito70 6m6 minutes ago
I love the signing. Let's Welcome @tyvonbranch to the @KCChiefs.
0 replies 41 retweets 58 favorites
Reply Retweet41 Favorite58
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[Just Passin' By]

With it just being a one year deal, and heavy on the incentives, this is a great signing for the Chiefs. There's very little potential downside, and the potential upside is significant.

[jonzie04]

great cheap signing. when healthy branch is a top tier SS. great player to have if you have a guy like coleman for when...i mean if he gets hurt. dorseys done a great job this offseason A+

[chiefzilla1501]

With it just being a one year deal, and heavy on the incentives, this is a great signing for the Chiefs. There's very little potential downside, and the potential upside is significant.
It buys time for berry to get healthy and hopefully groom a young replacement. Meantime he may one day transition into a demps role and provides much needed safety depth. Good move.

[Iconic]

Idk anything about him other than he ran a 4.26 which is really fucking fast.

[Mr. Laz]

Christian Hardy ‏@HardyNFL 53m53 minutes ago
The #Chiefs are still expected to pursue S Ron Parker, per @TerezPaylor. Not surprising. Branch almost plays as a linebacker.

[Rausch]

Christian Hardy ‏@HardyNFL 53m53 minutes ago
The #Chiefs are still expected to pursue S Ron Parker, per @TerezPaylor. Not surprising. Branch almost plays as a linebacker.

It gives us flexibility. We can do more of what we did last year (single high being the FS or the SS) mixing up our looks...

[BigMeatballDave]

great cheap signing. when healthy branch is a top tier SS. great player to have if you have a guy like coleman for when...i mean if he gets hurt. dorseys done a great job this offseason A+

So far, he's done great. Not signing a solid vet OL will knock that A+ to a C+.

[jonzie04]

So far, he's done great. Not signing a solid vet OL will knock that A+ to a C+.

Thats true, if we could sign a solid guard like rob sims in the 2-3m range, i'd be extremely pleased with maclin, sims, and branch, and dorseys usual collection of random dudes. That would leave us with 11 draft picks to find some more fattys, a 2nd WR, and anyone else we wanted.

[Mr. Laz]

It gives us flexibility. We can do more of what we did last year (single high being the FS or the SS) mixing up our looks...

Branch sounds like a guy to do Eric Berry 'in the box' stuff

looks like we are going to use multiple guys to compensate for losing Berry for awhile. Assuming that Berry won't play next year. :shrug:

[Rausch]

Branch sounds like a guy to do Eric Berry 'in the box' stuff

looks like we are going to use multiple guys to compensate for losing Berry for awhile. Assuming that Berry won't play next year. :shrug:

Exactly.

And I highly doubt Berry plays this year...

[chiefzilla1501]

So far, he's done great. Not signing a solid vet OL will knock that A+ to a C+.
My hope is there's plenty of pickings in the second wave. Gives us patience to cut bowe June 1 instead of rushing it, to work out a cap saving injury settlement with berry, hopefully to work out a cap saving long term deal with Houston. We still have a lot of options to open up quite a bit of spending money. Though I'm not crazy about the idea, Smith can restructure too.

I don't know the OL talent this free agent class well enough to know if there will be some pickings left by June 1.

[jonzie04]

from walter football

Chiefs sign S Tyvon Branch (1 year, $2 million): A Grade
I stated a couple of days ago that I love 1-year "prove it" contracts because they have a high tendency of working out with very little downside. That applies to this transaction, as Kansas City is getting a potential steal in Tyvon Branch.

Branch has played just five games in the past two seasons, but he's extremely talented. Had he been able to stay healthy, he would've fetched a big contract this offseason. His lingering foot problems are obviously an issue, but Kansas City can afford to take that risk with just a $2 million deal for one year. The Chiefs really needed a replacement for Eric Berry, and Branch actually could end up being an upgrade if he can manage to stay healthy.

[thabear04]

Is this the same guy who let Charles score 5 TD.

[kcchiefsus]

My hope is there's plenty of pickings in the second wave. Gives us patience to cut bowe June 1 instead of rushing it, to work out a cap saving injury settlement with berry, hopefully to work out a cap saving long term deal with Houston. We still have a lot of options to open up quite a bit of spending money. Though I'm not crazy about the idea, Smith can restructure too.

I don't know the OL talent this free agent class well enough to know if there will be some pickings left by June 1.

Fuck that. We need OL help. Wait and we end up with another Linkenbach or McGlynn. That's not acceptable.

Why do we need patience with Bowe? Cut his ass now. Designate him a June 1st cut and the extra room will hit the cap on June 1st.

How much damn time do we need for Berry? We've known about this for a while now. They've had plenty of time already.

[TribalElder]

Is this the same guy who let Charles score 5 TD.

ROFL

[jonzie04]

**** that. We need OL help. Wait and we end up with another Linkenbach or McGlynn. That's not acceptable.

Why do we need patience with Bowe? Cut his ass now. Designate him a June 1st cut and the extra room will hit the cap on June 1st.

How much damn time do we need for Berry? We've known about this for a while now. They've had plenty of time already.

it really isnt all that big of a deal. we have our WR, we have adressed safety for the most part. we have 11.... 11 draft picks.

[The Franchise]

Is this the same guy who let Charles score 5 TD.

No.

[The Franchise]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" lang="en"><p>RT <a href="https://twitter.com/nfl">@nfl</a> TB to KC: <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NFLFreeAgency?src=hash">#NFLFreeAgency</a> <a href="http://t.co/OKyKdwGANK">pic.twitter.com/OKyKdwGANK</a></p>&mdash; Andy Reid (@FauxAndyReid) <a href="https://twitter.com/FauxAndyReid/status/575324231065583616">March 10, 2015</a></blockquote>
<script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

[Rausch]

it really isnt all that big of a deal. we have our WR, we have adressed safety for the most part. we have 11.... 11 draft picks.

Did they already announce comp picks?...

[jonzie04]

Is this the same guy who let Charles score 5 TD.

http://scores.espn.go.com/nfl/boxscore?gameId=331215013

branch didnt play that day, but even if he would have, it takes 11. you could stick deion sanders on that 2013 raiders d and it wouldnt have made a difference.

[jonzie04]

Did they already announce comp picks?...

no, but the guys that get paid to do this kind of stuff all have us getting 4 comp picks...

[kcchiefsus]

it really isnt all that big of a deal. we have our WR, we have adressed safety for the most part. we have 11.... 11 draft picks.

If you're depending on the draft to fix the line then you're in for a rude awakening. There is not one single spot on the line currently that is set with nothing to worry about. We need at least 2 new starters and if you're depending on 2 rookies to start you're going to risk setting the record for the most sacked quarterback.

[ShowtimeSBMVP]

Did they already announce comp picks?...

They did it on Mar 24, 2014 last year.

[jonzie04]

They did it on Mar 24, 2014 last year.

coming soon i guess?!? time to see if these writers know what they're talking about. i hope they're right and we get 4.

[Unsmooth-Moment]

Seems like a good signing.

[BlackOp]

Interesting...why didn't the Raiders try to resign him?

[chiefzilla1501]

Fuck that. We need OL help. Wait and we end up with another Linkenbach or McGlynn. That's not acceptable.

Why do we need patience with Bowe? Cut his ass now. Designate him a June 1st cut and the extra room will hit the cap on June 1st.

How much damn time do we need for Berry? We've known about this for a while now. They've had plenty of time already.

The chiefs signed mcglynn and linkenbach because last year they were committed to spending no money. I don't see indication of that next year. So in a panic to sign an OL, you want to burn 4 mil in cap space for bowe vs just waiting until June 1? On berry, I don't know the semantics, but I'm sure it's complicated given that his recovery is still a question mark.

So much panic over nothing. The Chiefs still have plenty of chances to upgrade the OL without rushing into things.

[kcchiefsus]

The chiefs signed mcglynn and linkenbach because last year they were committed to spending no money. I don't see indication of that next year. So in a panic to sign an OL, you want to burn 4 mil in cap space for bowe vs just waiting until June 1? On berry, I don't know the semantics, but I'm sure it's complicated given that his recovery is still a question mark.

So much panic over nothing. The Chiefs still have plenty of chances to upgrade the OL without rushing into things.

We can designate Bowe a post-June 1st cut and still cut him now.

[Sure-Oz]

Interesting...why didn't the Raiders try to resign him?
Maybe he didn't want to come back

[chiefzilla1501]

We can designate Bowe a post-June 1st cut and still cut him now.
I know the cap space doesn't become available until June 1. Doesn't that mean that the Chiefs won't be able to spend that money until June 1? If they can, then fine, I agree with you.

[kcchiefsus]

I know the cap space doesn't become available until June 1. Doesn't that mean that the Chiefs won't be able to spend that money until June 1? If they can, then fine, I agree with you.

Yes, we have to wait until June 1st until that cap space is cleared I believe. We can still get some relief now though by cutting him right away. I see no reason to wait.

[Sully]

Post June 1 designation doesn't help the team. It's for the player's benefit.
If they are toying with the idea of keeping him or renogotiating, it makes no sense to panic and cut him now.

[Mr. Laz]

We can designate Bowe a post-June 1st cut and still cut him now.
Yea, but it doesn't work the way it should.

the post june designation is basically just for the players

As far as i can tell, the team doesn't benefit much at all. The cap room doesn't open up until june 1st regardless.

[chiefzilla1501]

Yes, we have to wait until June 1st until that cap space is cleared I believe. We can still get some relief now though by cutting him right away. I see no reason to wait.
If that's true, then fine, but if the relief is minimal I'd rather test the trade waters until we fully know we can't get anything in return. I don't want to be spending ten mill for Hudsons and bulagas, so guess I'm not as antsy about catching the first wave.

I'm pretty sure linkenbach was brought in for depth, and mcglynn was a desperation move. I agree we should bring in some vets. I just think the second wave can bring in some good enough vets if we actually tried. That is, after all, how we landed Schwartz.

[Mr. Laz]

Yes, we have to wait until June 1st until that cap space is cleared I believe. We can still get some relief now though by cutting him right away. I see no reason to wait.

I would like to know about this

[ShowtimeSBMVP]

I would like to know about this

You get it now that's why teams only get 1.

[BossChief]

You get it now that's why teams only get 1.

I don't think that's right

[ct]

http://www.spotrac.com/blog/understanding-2014-post-june-1st-releases/

tidbit regarding miles austin's release last year...

The first thing to note is that Austin is being released on March 12th, and being designated a June 1st release. Per the rules of the CBA each team has the option to designate two players per year in this manner. The catch here is that Austin’s current contract must stay completely active on the Cowboys’ books until June 2nd. This means his original $8,249,400 cap figure will remain on the Cowboys salary cap until this time.

[ShowtimeSBMVP]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" lang="en"><p>Tyvon Branch one-year Chiefs deal, $2.1 million; $200,000 bonus, $870,000 salary, $30,000 workout bonus, $62,500 a game active roster bonus</p>&mdash; Aaron Wilson (@RavensInsider) <a href="https://twitter.com/RavensInsider/status/575340438724435968">March 10, 2015</a></blockquote>
<script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

[BossChief]

We get 2?

[ShowtimeSBMVP]

We get 2?

No they changed it.

[BossChief]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" lang="en"><p>Tyvon Branch one-year Chiefs deal, $2.1 million; $200,000 bonus, $870,000 salary, $30,000 workout bonus, $62,500 a game active roster bonus</p>&mdash; Aaron Wilson (@RavensInsider) <a href="https://twitter.com/RavensInsider/status/575340438724435968">March 10, 2015</a></blockquote>
<script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

GREAT structure.

He gets hurt, he only gets league min.

Zero risk top end potential.

[wazu]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" lang="en"><p>Tyvon Branch one-year Chiefs deal, $2.1 million; $200,000 bonus, $870,000 salary, $30,000 workout bonus, $62,500 a game active roster bonus</p>&mdash; Aaron Wilson (@RavensInsider) <a href="https://twitter.com/RavensInsider/status/575340438724435968">March 10, 2015</a></blockquote>
<script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

That active roster bonus is huge. Seems now like worth the gamble.

[BossChief]

No they changed it.

They only get 1, but the salary sticks until June 1st.

[BossChief]

That active roster bonus is huge. Seems now like worth the gamble.

Even at 2m fully guaranteed it would be a good deal.

This is a GREAT deal.

[O.city]

Cool

[Mav]

Nice job by the Chiefs. Experienced SS to ease the loss of Eric Berry.

Efficient job by Dorsey and Co.

Maclin and Branch?

[Mr. Laz]

You get it now that's why teams only get 1.

http://www.spotrac.com/blog/understanding-2014-post-june-1st-releases/

tidbit regarding miles austin's release last year...

The first thing to note is that Austin is being released on March 12th, and being designated a June 1st release. Per the rules of the CBA each team has the option to designate two players per year in this manner. The catch here is that Austin’s current contract must stay completely active on the Cowboys’ books until June 2nd. This means his original $8,249,400 cap figure will remain on the Cowboys salary cap until this time.

so i think you misunderstand.

I did too until a few weeks ago

[MotherfuckerJones]

@SeanKeeler: Tyvon Branch (via @PFF) vs. run in '14: +0.8 in 195 snaps. R. Parker: -8.9; Coleman: +1.0; Abdullah: -5.7. Hello, box support. #Chiefs #NFL

[Meatloaf]

This is a GREAT signing. Virtually no risk dollar-wise. 6', 200lb guy ran in the 4.3's at his combine workout (2008). Everything I read suggests that when healthy, he's a beast. Super signing!!!

[OnTheWarpath15]

Pretty well structured deal, but damn we seem to like broken players.

[staylor26]

Pretty well structured deal, but damn we seem to like broken players.

Because you can get away with it when you have depth.

[Coochie liquor]

Wow, nice contract Dorsey!!

['Hamas' Jenkins]

I drafted Branch in the CP Mock back in '08. I was always a big fan of his. That's an excellent deal.

[Chiefs Pantalones]

@tyvonbranch: Blessed and thankful for another opportunity to play the game I love at the highest level! #Chiefs

[Rausch]

This is a GREAT signing. Virtually no risk dollar-wise. 6', 200lb guy ran in the 4.3's at his combine workout (2008). Everything I read suggests that when healthy, he's a beast. Super signing!!!

Deals like this are what this team needs.

Gives us a number of options for different packages.

On top of that another possible P/K returner?...

[Mr. Laz]

@SeanKeeler: Tyvon Branch (via @PFF) vs. run in '14: +0.8 in 195 snaps. R. Parker: -8.9; Coleman: +1.0; Abdullah: -5.7. Hello, box support. #Chiefs #NFL

Maybe Branch can teach Mauga somthing


:deevee:

[R8RFAN]

Bye, Parker.

I would like to have Parker in Oakland

[ct]

I would like to have Parker in Oakland

We would too, then we can specifically run routes his way to pull him up toward LOS where he's as lost as your GM with his head up his black hole.

[Three7s]

We would too, then we can specifically run routes his way to pull him up toward LOS where he's as lost as your GM with his head up his black hole.
I still think Parker would make a pretty decent FS, but that's about the only position he could perform at a manageable level. His tackling is too porous for anything else.

[rtmike]

He was a corner.


+ going by the hit on Moeaki he's not afraid to tackle.


Did Rhoutt even tackle anyone with us?

[thabear04]

Chiefs Safety Tyvon Branch Can't Wait for "Home of the Chiefs!"

The Kansas City Chiefs signed seven-year NFL veteran safety Tyvon Branch on Monday.

The former Oakland Raider, who has played in 75 career games with 67 starts, all with the Raiders, can’t wait to play on the right side of Arrowhead Stadium this fall.

“I think on the national anthem when they say, ‘Home of the Chiefs!’ I think I’m going to go a little crazy when I hear that,” Branch said.

He continued.

“It’s so loud in there. I’m excited to be on the other side of it now and have them rooting for me instead of against me.”

But for Branch, the opportunity to play for the Chiefs defense, which ranked No. 2 in the NFL last year in scoring by allowing just 17.6 points per game, made Kansas City the right fit for him.

“I’m just excited to play in that defense,” he said. “I’m very relentless out on the field. I’ve got that never-say-quit mentality and I go hard. It’s already a great defense, I’m just trying to put my little special sauce on it.”

What’s most often associated with defensive coordinator Bob Sutton’s scheme is a downhill, physical mentality, something Branch feels suits him well.

That’s my style of play,” he explained. “I like to play physical and this defense definitely caters to what I like to do. I get to play fast and with that front four, the way they’ve been playing, I can play fast in that defense.”

After missing just two games between 2009 and 2012, Branch has dealt with injuries over the past two seasons, allowing him to play in just five games combined.

When healthy, Branch showed that he can produce at a very high level, having more than 90 tackles in each of those four seasons in Oakland.

Now that he’s with the Chiefs, Branch is excited about making the most of his opportunity.

“I had some setbacks and I’m just excited to have another opportunity,” he said. “Every opportunity you get to play this game is a blessing, and I’m blessed to have an opportunity with the Kansas City Chiefs.”

[planetdoc]

Countering the Trend: How Branch Shut Down Gronkowski (http://www.profootballfocus.com/blog/2012/06/23/countering-the-trend-how-branch-shut-down-gronkowski/)
Rob Gronkowski’s 2011 performance set all-time NFL records for a tight end for yardage (1,327) and touchdowns (17). He was one of the league’s most dominant forces and had such an impressive season that he ranked sixth in the PFF Top 101 players list.

When he played the Oakland Raiders in Week 4 he was held to a single catch for 15 yards largely by the work of Tyvon Branch, who shut Gronkowski down like nobody else was able to manage all season. We took a look at Branch in a recent Secret Superstar article and noted how well he had played Gronkowski as well as other receiving tight ends, and decided to investigate further. So, just how did he do it?

The Raiders played almost exclusively man coverage in this game, which is obviously what they do best, but also an extremely gutsy thing to do against the Patriots who have a series of players built to destroy that strategy. They caught a break with Aaron Hernandez out of the game, but even though they handled Gronkowski, Wes Welker sliced that man coverage for nine catches, 158 yards and a touchdown (and came up about six inches shy of a second score).

That is the beauty of the Patriots’ offense: you can never shut everything down–if you take away one option, they simply move on to something else and kill you all game with that. Nevertheless, the Raiders are the only team all season to really shut down Gronkowski, and that is what we are going to look at.

The majority of the work was done by Tyvon Branch, though the Raiders did occasionally replace him in coverage against Gronkowski with Joe Porter and Jerome Boyd. Whoever was over him, the game plan was the same: aggressive man coverage, engaging as soon as possible at the line.

In essence, Branch was left on his own against Gronkowski most of the game, and simply beat him one-on-one, but there were some schematic quirks that the Raiders employed to help Branch out at times. When Gronkowski lined up in tight to the line, the Raiders often aligned their defensive end wide, essentially funneling Gronkowski’s release directly ahead between the defensive end and the defensive tackle on that side of the formation. This meant that he had to release into a channel and right into Branch, who would stack the gap and ensure that he could get his hands on the big tight end almost immediately. Branch is one of the few defensive backs in the league that is strong enough to deal with Gronkowsi coming straight at him, and this alignment meant that he didn’t have to contend with any fakes or sidesteps in the release.

https://pff-pffanalysisltd12.netdna-ssl.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/branchgronk3c.jpg

From that point, Branch could simply ride Gronkowski down the field as he tried to run his route. Safeties tracking big tight ends over the middle will get away with a lot more contact than corners out on the edge against wide receivers, and there were several plays in the course of this game that could easily have been penalties for the contact involved, and surely would have been had it been corner on receiver.

The Patriots were obviously well aware of how effective the Raiders were at taking away Gronkowski, because they were quick to go to him if he was ever left open. With 1:22 to go in the first quarter, the Raiders started to do something a little different. They had Branch in man coverage with BenJarvus Green-Ellis out of the backfield, on the far side of the formation from Gronkowski. Instead of putting Porter or Boyd on him as they would opt to do elsewhere, they left Rolando McClain with the task of covering him.

That was all Tom Brady needed to see, and he immediately went deep to Gronkowski up the seam. To McClain’s credit, he was in good position all the way through and made a solid play on the ball to deflect it away, but the job Oakland was doing on Gronkowski was clear, and any time Branch was not on him, Brady was going to try and get him the ball.

https://pff-pffanalysisltd12.netdna-ssl.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/branchgronk2.jpg

His only reception of the game came with three seconds to go in the first quarter. Gronkowski was split out in the slot on the left of the formation and Tyvon Branch was once again in coverage, but this time playing off-man rather than press coverage at the line. The Patriots threw a quick out to the tight end and Branch had just left himself too much real estate to make up to stop the play.

https://pff-pffanalysisltd12.netdna-ssl.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/branchgronk1.jpg

he reason Gronkowski was so unstoppable last season is because teams didn’t have players that could match up with him reliably and take him out of the game. He is also too big a target–and Brady too accurate a passer–to contain with zone coverage. He is a savvy enough receiver that he can attack the space between zones and Brady can get the football into those spaces, or high enough that only Gronkowski can come down with it, removing any chance the zone coverage has of stopping the plays.

Oakland went a different route. They eschewed zone schemes in favor of their usual aggressive man coverage, and found a guy who could live with Gronkowski both athletically and physically at the line.

In a league where players like Gronkowski and Jimmy Graham are becoming unstoppable forces as teams struggle to match up with them, everybody is looking for a safety with the kind of coverage skills to be matched up one-on-one and win. It turns out the Raiders have exactly what everybody is looking for in the shape of Tyvon Branch, who just might be the best man-coverage safety in the league.

[Dunerdr]

Nice were gonna fuck you up gronk!

[BigMeatballDave]

I believe this signing means they are not.

Oops. :)

[Jiu Jitsu Jon]

Now you just need to sign a center. Hopefully one recovering from a torn labrum and still available.

[Hammock Parties]

Reminds me of the Sammy Knight signing.

[Baby Lee]

Reminds me of the Sammy Knight signing.

ROFL ROFL - Stay Gold Claynyboy!!

[Reerun_KC]

I thought Trayvon was shot?

[Hammock Parties]

You needn't take it as a negative. Sammy Knight was a decent player for this franchise.