Tyvon Branch is a name to watch. After an amazing career at the University of Connecticut, he was drafted in the fourth round of the 2008 NFL Draft. In his rookie season with the Oakland Raiders, Tyvon had a pick, but was placed on the IR in November due to a shoulder injury.

In 2009, he broke out. He finished with 124 tackles, two forced fumbles, and a sack. He finished tenth overall in tackles, much better than most linebackers.

He took time to answer a few questions:

Tyler Mascaro: You attended the University of Connecticut. What was the recruiting process like, what colleges were interested in you, and why did you choose UCONN?

Tyvon Branch: The recruiting process was fun. It gave me the opportunity to see some schools throughout the country. I chose UCONN because they had an up and coming football program and I loved the coaching staff.

Tyler Mascaro: You were drafted in the 4th round of the NFL draft after an amazing college career. Being drafted this late, did it motivate you?

Tyvon Branch: At this level, it is important to stay hungry and motivated no matter what. My dream was to play in the NFL and I am here. There is no point to dwell on the past because there is always someone just as good as you trying to take your spot.

TM: In your 2008 season, you were placed on IR, ending your season. What did you do to recover from this shoulder injury?

TB: I followed the trainers plan for the most part. Every day I was in there trying to get better. I hate missing games and opportunities to be out there. I feel as if it was my responsibility to my teammates to get out there as soon as I could.

TM: What is your favorite workout to do to stay in shape in the offseason?

TB: I love a good long lift followed my some high intensity agility and sprinting drills. I want to do everything I can to get better.

TM: What NFL player do you fear the most and why?

TB: There are some great QB’s out there that have the ability to sit back and pick you apart. Those are the guys who keep me most on my toes.

TM: Have you always been a safety, or have you switched positions throughout your football career?

TB: I have always been in the defensive backfield. Whether corner or safety, this has always been my spot.

TM: What do you think of the UCONN  women's basketball team?

TB: They are amazing. I went down to the final four and had a blast. Check out the video I posted from the game at www.facebook.com/tyvonbranch

Follow Tyvon on twitter @tyvonbranch, become a fan of him on facebook @facebook.com/tyvonbranch and follow me on twitter @T_Masc