Tyvon Branch

Tyvon A. Branch (born December 11, 1986) is an American football safety for the Oakland Raiders of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Raiders in the fourth round of the 2008 NFL Draft. He played college football at Connecticut.

Oakland Raiders
Branch was selected by the Raiders in the 4th round. The Raiders chose to draft Branch not only by his defensive back skills, but also his importance as a return specialist, due to the departure of all-time return leader Chris Carr. During his rookie season on September 14, 2008, Branch intercepted Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Damon Huard for his first career interception. Branch earned his first career start in the 2009 season opener on September 14 in a Monday night game against the San Diego Chargers, but was placed on season-ending injured reserve on November 5 with a shoulder injury.

He went on to have a breakout season for the Raiders in 2009 as the starting strong safety in all 16 games, finishing with 98 unassisted tackles and 26 assists, two forced fumbles, and a sack. He had his best game of the year in a win over the heavily favored Bengals with 12 tackles and a forced fumble. During the 2010 NFL season, he again started in all 16 games for an 8-8 team, recording 81 unassisted tackles and 23 assists.

In March 2012, the Raiders placed a franchise tag on Branch. On July 14, 2012, Branch sign a 4-year, $26.6 million dollar contract with the Raiders. On November 9, Branch was fined $15,750 for unnecessary roughness against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.