Georgia Bulldogs wide receiver Zachariah Branch has been drafted by the Atlanta Falcons. Branch was selected with the 79th overall pick in the third round. The shifty route runner will look to shine in the NFL following his one year in Athens.

At 5-foot-10, 180 pounds, Branch is an extremely talented receiver that could make an instant impact in Atlanta as soon as Week 1. Branch, a former five-star recruit, transferred to Georgia prior to the 2025 campaign after two seasons at USC, and solidified himself as a focal point on the Dawgs’ offense right away. The former Bulldog was regarded as one of the top receivers on the board, and Branch finds himself in an excellent position to succeed as a member of the Falcons in 2026.

Branch was credited with 811 yards and six touchdowns on 81 receptions throughout his only season at Georgia. The talented playmaker flashed true NFL potential on numerous occasions last season, and Branch could pick up where he left off at Georgia throughout his rookie campaign. The former Georgia star should benefit greatly by having Tua Tagovailoa or Michael Penix as his quarterback next season as well, as Branch has all the tools at his disposal to compile an elite rookie campaign in the NFL.

Georgia has had a multitude of playmakers selected in the early rounds of the draft this weekend in addition to Branch. Star linebacker CJ Allen was drafted by the Indianapolis Colts in the second round, while Christen Miller was drafted in the second round by the New Orleans Saints.

Follow UGA Wire on Instagram or Threads for more Georgia NFL draft coverage!

This article originally appeared on UGA Wire: Star Georgia WR Zachariah Branch selected in 2026 NFL draft