Cliff Branch Jr. was born on August 1, 1948, in Houston, Texas. His early life set the foundation for an impressive football career. He attended the University of Colorado, excelling in football and track. In track, he set a 100-meter NCAA championship meet record and achieved significant personal bests. In football, he showed promise as a wide receiver. His talents led to his selection in the fourth round of the 1972 NFL draft by the Oakland Raiders.
Branch played for the Raiders for 14 years. He won three Super Bowl championships: XI, XV, and XVIII. He recorded 501 career receptions, 8,685 yards, and 67 touchdowns. He earned four Pro Bowl selections and three First-Team All-Pro honors. Branch set playoff records in receptions and yards, which stood until broken by Jerry Rice. His performance and contributions earned him a posthumous Hall of Fame induction in 2022. His legacy remains integral to NFL history.
Cliff Branch was enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2022.
Branch played for the Raiders for 14 seasons, during which time the team won three Super Bowls (1976,1980 and 1983) and he was a key deep threat in their offense.
