Jim Everett, Tommy McDonald headline Albuquerque鈥檚 NFL best
3. Alan Branch, DT, Cibola
Another trench warrior for the Cibola Cougars, Branch was dominant during his run with the program. Branch was named first-team all-state defensive tackle three straight seasons with the Cougars as well as second-team all-state tight end as a senior. His senior year he was also recognized as the state鈥檚 Gatorade Player of the Year. the No. 1 player in the state and No. 7 strong defensive end in the country in the Class of 2004, Branch committed to Michigan. At Michigan, Branch made his presence known as he recorded 61 tackles, 15 tackles for loss, 6.5 sacks, four fumble recoveries and an interception in 37 career games in the Maize and Blue. Branch was selected in the second round, No. 33 overall, in the 2007 NFL Draft by the Cardinals and went on to play 11 NFL seasons for four teams. In his career he had 279 total tackles, 10.5 quarterback sacks, 15 pass deflections, five forced fumbles and one fumble recovery while appearing in four Super Bowls and winning two with the New England Patriots. He is a member of the .
