CBS News: Zachariah Branch Reflects on Georgia’s Persuasive Recruitment Efforts During His Time in the Transfer Portal
April 12, 2025 – CBS News Sports Desk
In a revealing moment of reflection, standout wide receiver Zachariah Branch opened up about his time in the NCAA transfer portal and the attention he received from powerhouse programs—specifically highlighting the University of Georgia’s impressive recruiting pitch.
Branch, widely regarded as one of the most electrifying athletes in college football, entered the portal following a productive season that saw him emerge as a top playmaker. As expected, interest surged quickly, but it was Georgia’s approach that left a lasting impression.
“Georgia came strong,” Branch told CBS Sports in an exclusive interview. “From the jump, it was clear they had a real plan for me—not just on the field, but in terms of my development and future beyond football. It was very professional, very intentional.”
The Bulldogs, led by head coach Kirby Smart, have built a reputation not just for winning titles but for their relentless pursuit of top-tier talent. Branch said Georgia’s pitch was notable for how comprehensive and tailored it felt.
“They brought in position coaches, the offensive coordinator, even folks from their NIL and personal branding departments. They weren’t just selling football—they were selling the total package. That stood out,” Branch explained.
While Branch ultimately chose to continue his collegiate career elsewhere, he emphasized that the decision was not a reflection on Georgia’s efforts.
“It was one of the hardest choices I’ve had to make,” he admitted. “I had a lot of respect for what they were building and how they approached me as a man, not just an athlete.”
Georgia’s recruitment of Branch is emblematic of a larger trend in the modern college football landscape, where elite programs are adopting increasingly sophisticated tactics to lure top talent from the transfer portal. No longer limited to traditional in-home visits or highlight reels, recruiting now encompasses data-driven performance projections, customized NIL strategies, and personal development opportunities.
College football analyst Barrett Sallee commented on the evolution: “Programs like Georgia understand that players want more than playing time—they want growth, exposure, and a pathway to the NFL. Georgia’s ability to speak to all those aspects is what makes them so competitive in the portal.”
Branch’s comments offer a glimpse into the high-stakes world of college football recruiting, where even programs with national championships under their belts must go the extra mile to secure top athletes. Though Georgia didn’t land Branch, his praise underscores their continued relevance and adaptability in a rapidly changing environment.
As for what’s next, Branch is already turning heads in spring workouts at his new program, where expectations are sky-high. Still, he carries a clear respect for the Bulldogs and what they represent.
“I’ve got nothing but love for Georgia,” he said. “They do it the right way