Branch Entering NFL Draft

Michigan defensive tackle Alan Branch announced Monday afternoon that he is leaving Michigan a year early to enter the NFL Draft. Here are his comments from his press conference at 2 PM Monday afternoon.

Alan Branch at this afternoon's press conference:

"As I discussed with Carr this morning, I have decided to forgo my senior season at Michigan to enter the NFL Draft."

"It's always been a dream for me to play in the NFL."

"It is a surprise me how tough it is to make this decision."

"Michigan took an unknown kid from Alburquerque and turned him into a Michigan man."

"Education is really important to me and my family, and so I plan to come back and get my degree at Michigan."

"I got my (NFL) grade back, and it said solid first round."

Branch was named All Big Ten this season, his third at Michigan, on both the Coaches and Media ballets.