58 Days to Purdue Football: Branson Deen

There are just 58 days until Purdue football returns. Today we take a look at a defensive lineman who is likely to make a big impact.

Branson Deen - Junior

Indianapolis, IN (Lawrence Central HS)

6’2”, 275 pounds

Defensive Line

2021 Projection: Starter on the Defensive Line

I don’t think it’s a stretch to say that there’s going to be a lot expected out of Deen this season. After appearing in all six of Purdue’s game in the Covid shortened season, including four starts, the young man is poised for a breakout year. During the 2020 season Deen recorded 12 tackles and 2 tackles for loss. One of these was also a safety that you see him celebrating in the picture above. Ya gotta love a big man who can put points on the board. His high water mark for tackles came against Illinois when he had four.

Though there are additional players coming in and chasing spots it seems like Deen has put himself in a good position to start on the line for game one. It will be up to him to maintain that starting spot as I’m sure others behind him will be hungry for that role. It’s encouraging that Deen’s weight was updated by Purdue from 265 to 275. Let’s hope he carries that extra bulk well and can manhandle some offensive lineman this fall.