DL Tavian Branch Decommits From Rutgers, Reopens His Recruitment

Rutgers football faces its sixth decommitment of the 2026 recruitment class as 6-foot-3, 300-pound 3-star defensive tackle Tavian Branch has decided to reopen his recruitment. With his decommitment, Jermaine Polk, Donovan Johnson, and Reece Beck are the only three players left in the 2026 recruitment class for Rutgers who are listed as defensive linemen, according to 247sports.

“I want to thank Rutgers and the entire staff for the opportunity. This process has taught me a lot. After talking with my family and coaches, I’ve decided to decommit and reopen my recruitment. No bridges burned. Much respect to Rutgers. I’m excited to explore every option.”- Tavian Branch via his X account.

The Riverside, PA, native originally committed to Rutgers over Alabama, Notre Dame, Oklahoma, and Penn State.

With his decommitment, Rutgers’ 2026 recruiting class moves down to No.39 in the country according to the Rivals industry rankings and No.37 according to 247sports’ composite rankings.

He joins quarterback Gavin Sidwar, offensive lineman Tyrell Simpson, linebacker Justin Edwards, linebacker Adam Shaw, and safety Rihyeal Kelley as players who decommitted from the Knights in the 2026 recruitment cycle. Sidwar ended up committing to Missouri, Simpson committed to Virginia Tech, Justin Edwards committed to Miami, Adam Shaw committed to Michigan State, and Rihyeal Kelley flipped his commitment to Alabama.