Atlanta Falcons rookie wide receiver Zachariah Branch says his Christian faith and a daily devotional routine have been central to his football journey, from his high school years at Bishop Gorman through college and into his first NFL season.
Branch, a 22-year-old taken 79th overall by the Falcons in April, told OutKick that reading a devotional book each morning — regardless of whether it is game day — has been a habit since his freshman year at USC. «As soon as I first wake up, I got to make sure I read my devotional book – whatever the date is for that day,» he said. «I've always been very, very faithful as a kid growing up. But I think I started that my freshman year in college when I was at USC. I always started off with my devotional book, and that's stuck with me through my whole career.»
Now in Atlanta, Branch said he has found a locker room filled with teammates who share his values. He mentioned star running back Bijan Robinson and quarterback Tua Tagovailoa as among those he has discussed faith with since arriving. «There's a lot of guys in the locker room who have the same morals and same values, so it's cool to be surrounded by a lot of those different guys,» Branch said.
Branch transferred to Georgia for his final collegiate season and remained in the Peach State when the Falcons drafted him. He believes his speed, strength and overall ability are gifts from God, and he frames his career as a responsibility to make the most of them. «I don't think I would be where I am today if it wasn't for the things God has allowed me to do and the opportunities he's allowed me to have as well,» he said. «I think the ability He has given me to do what I do on the field, that's something that is all Him. I just get a chance to exhale that and make sure I enhance it as best I can. I would be doing Him a disservice if I don't take advantage of those things and the gifts He has blessed me with.»
Three regular-season games into his NFL career, Branch expressed confidence that he will eventually earn a starting role with the Falcons, a belief he said is rooted in more than self-assurance. He described his faith as a life pillar that drives him on and off the field, calling it «everything» when asked what it means to him. He also said he is grateful for the opportunities he has received and those still to come.
Branch's morning routine extends beyond reading. He said the next step on game-day mornings is brushing his teeth, a habit he now shares with fans through a partnership with Oral-B and Crest, the official toothbrush, toothpaste, floss and mouthwash of the NFL. The brands released special-edition products featuring seven teams, including the Falcons. «It's a blessing when they presented me with the opportunity to get a chance to showcase the Oral-B and Crest products,» Branch said. «I use them every day to make sure that my smile is always white as I leave the house.»
He added that seeing the Falcons logo on the toothpaste and toothbrush is «pretty cool» and that his mother has also asked for the products. «Just get a chance to take it in and know that it's a blessing every single day to represent that and use those products,» he said.
Branch's comments reflect a broader trend of Christian faith being openly discussed among NFL players and coaches. For the rookie, the combination of daily devotionals, supportive teammates and a disciplined morning routine has provided a foundation as he adjusts to the professional game. He said the habit has «been working» for him and that he intends to keep starting every day the same way.