Zachariah and Zion Branch Signal Departure from USC
On December 17, 2024, standout siblings Zachariah and Zion Branch announced their decision to enter the NCAA transfer portal, signaling a significant shift in the University of Southern California’s (USC) football roster heading into the 2025 offseason. The news arrives in the wake of a challenging season for the Trojans, marked by underperformance and growing uncertainty within the program.
The departure of the Branch brothers—two of USC’s most promising young talents—has sparked conversations across the college football world, with analysts and fans alike speculating on their next destination and the broader implications for USC’s football future.
Zachariah Branch: A Rising Star on Offense
Zachariah Branch, a highly-touted wide receiver, was one of USC’s offensive standouts during the 2024 season. He finished as the team’s second-leading receiver, showcasing his speed, agility, and playmaking ability in both receiving and special teams roles. Known for his explosiveness and highlight-reel potential, Zachariah played a critical role in the Trojans’ offense and was widely regarded as one of the top young receivers in the nation.
His entry into the transfer portal immediately made him one of the most coveted wideouts available, with multiple Power Five programs expected to pursue him aggressively. His departure represents a significant loss for USC’s passing game, especially amid broader questions surrounding the team’s offensive identity moving forward.
Zion Branch: Defensive Contributor with Growing Potential
Zion Branch, a safety and older brother to Zachariah, made consistent contributions on the defensive side of the ball. He concluded the 2024 season with 19 tackles, playing an important role in the Trojans’ secondary rotation. While he did not attract the same national spotlight as his younger brother, Zion demonstrated growth and potential in his coverage skills and run support, making him a valuable asset in the defensive backfield.
With additional development, Zion is seen as a player with the potential to emerge as a defensive leader at another program. His departure, combined with USC’s ongoing defensive struggles, further compounds the challenges facing the team’s coaching staff as they look to rebuild their roster and address vulnerabilities on defense.
A Brotherly Bond and a Joint Decision
In a shared statement, the Branch brothers expressed gratitude for their time at USC, reflecting on the unique opportunity to play together at the collegiate level. “We are thankful for the memories, teammates, and coaching staff that shaped our journey at USC,” they wrote. “The chance to share the field as brothers was truly special, and we will carry these experiences with us into the next chapter.”
Their decision to enter the transfer portal together is a testament to their close bond and mutual commitment to pursuing new opportunities as a package deal—a factor that may influence potential suitors looking to strengthen both offensive and defensive units simultaneously.
What This Means for USC Football
The Branch brothers’ departure underscores the turbulence within the USC football program, which has faced mounting pressure following a disappointing 2024 campaign. The season fell short of expectations, and head coach Lincoln Riley has come under scrutiny for the team’s inconsistent performances and defensive lapses.
Losing two young and talented players like Zachariah and Zion not only weakens the current roster but may also impact future recruiting efforts and overall team morale. As the transfer portal becomes an increasingly influential force in college football, programs like USC must adapt quickly to maintain competitiveness and stability.
Looking Ahead
As of now, the Branch brothers have not publicly indicated where they intend to transfer, but top-tier programs across the country are expected to express interest. Their decision will likely be a high-profile storyline throughout the college football offseason.
For USC, the focus now shifts to roster management, potential incoming transfers, and a comprehensive strategy to rebuild momentum ahead of the 2025 season. The Trojans will need to make key decisions regarding leadership, player development, and recruiting in order to retain their status as a major force in college football.
Source:
Reuters – Branch Brothers Enter Transfer Portal
