2026 IOL Tavian Branch on Kentucky Offer: ‘It Was One of the Most Important Experiences in my Life’

Kentucky hasn’t been in contact with 2026 offensive lineman Tavian Branch for long. However, they’re already making an impression.

The 6-foot-3.5, 300-pound interior offensive lineman from Riverside (Taylor, PA) told KSR+ that he had a long talk with Kentucky offensive line coach Eric Wolford on Tuesday . It was during that conversation that he added his offer from the program .

“It was one of the most important experiences in my life because that was my first SEC offer,” Branch said. “That’s a big offer for me. Just getting an offer from Kentucky meant a lot to me.”

Wolford first contacted Branch about two weeks ago. Now, he wants to visit for a game this season.

“I’ll probably get down for a game,” he said. “It’s a good school and a school that can get me to the next level with a coach like Coach Wolford. They just produce talent.”

Branch also said he’ll “definitely” take a visit after the season. During that trip, he’ll want to see how he could succeed at Kentucky, both offensively and defensively.

“I play offense and defense at a very high level. Kentucky is recruiting me for offense, but they might switch it to defense,” he said. “I’m looking at the position coach to see if they can get me to the next level. Lastly, it’s about the academic standpoint. How is the school academically?”

His Wider Recruitment

Tavian Branch is in the full swing of the recruiting process heading into his junior year. For some, it can be a. lot, but not for Branch.

“If you’re organized and humble with it, it can be fun,” he said.

Branch is hearing mainly from Penn State, Rutgers, Oklahoma State, Pitt, Syracuse, Duke, USC, and West Virginia. He’s been to Penn State six times, Pitt twice, and also been to Rutgers and Syracuse.

“I’ll probably take another visit to Pitt, whether it be unofficial or official, after my junior year,” he said.

During the recruiting process, Branch is looking for a place that feels like home. He also wants to be held accountable.

“I want to go in there, take it as a family, and have accountability,” he said. “Then, if the assistant coaches can get me to the next level. Lastly, it’s the academic part. How good is the school academically?”

Tavian Branch’s Game

2026 offensive lineman Tavian Branch from Riverside (PA) is being recruited to play both sides of the ball. Most schools want him to play on offense, but Pitt is recruiting him for both. Rutgers, Duke, Syracuse, Cincinnati, and Temple are recruiting him for defense.

“My greatest strength is being able to move on offense and defense at 290 to 300 pounds,” he said. “I can move on the fly like a tight end or a wide receiver at the high school level.”

Branch is looking to improve his mindset heading into the season. He also wants to have a better get-off.

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