Shockwaves at Rutgers: DL Tavian Branch Abruptly Decommits, Leaving Recruitment in Turmoil

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.

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.

“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.

It’s been quite the wild ride for Rutgers’ 2026 football recruiting class — and just when you think the rollercoaster might slow down, here comes Tavian Branch deciding to hit the brakes and step off. The 6-foot-3, 300-pound defensive tackle, who once picked the Scarlet Knights over some serious heavyweights like Alabama and Notre Dame, has officially reopened his recruitment. That shift leaves Rutgers with just three defensive linemen commitments—Jermaine Polk, Donovan Johnson, and Reece Beck—holding down the fort. Branch’s parting words showed respect and gratitude, but also a clear desire to keep options open, which speaks volumes about the competitive nature of recruiting these days. Of course, this isn’t an isolated incident—Branch joins a growing list of decommitments that has pushed Rutgers’ 2026 class ranking downward, reflecting the challenge that lies ahead for the Knights as they try to hold onto top talent. LEARN MORE

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.