Jarrad Branthwaite

Jarrad Branthwaite is a 23-year-old English centre back currently playing for Everton in the Premier League, having established himself as one of the more composed defenders in the division over the past two seasons. His development at Goodison Park has been one of the more encouraging stories at a club that has spent much of recent years battling near the lower end of the table, and his physical presence combined with a calm reading of the game has made him a consistent starter when fit.

In the 2025/26 season Branthwaite has made eight appearances, accumulating 512 minutes and contributing one goal, which came in a notable 3-2 away win at Newcastle United in late February where he earned a match rating of 7.37. His season average rating of 7.08 reflects a defender performing solidly rather than spectacularly, though a brief substitute appearance against Chelsea in a 3-0 home defeat in March, where he played just 12 minutes, hints at a period where he may have been managing a knock or returning from one. He was back in the starting eleven for the 2-2 draw at Brentford in April, completing the full 90 minutes with a rating of 7.02.

Branthwaite has been on the radar of several top-flight clubs following his consistent performances, and his name has circulated in transfer discussions over recent windows, though he remains an Everton player heading into the final stretch of the season. At international level he has been in contention for England recognition, and his continued Premier League minutes keep him in the conversation as Gareth Southgate's successor builds a picture of available talent in the defensive positions.

In Everton's remaining fixtures, the key thing to observe is whether Branthwaite holds his starting place and how he handles opponents who look to exploit the channels in behind a high defensive line. SportSignals' AI analysis engine has tracked Everton's defensive structure across recent matches, and Branthwaite's positioning and aerial work in set-piece situations will be worth monitoring as the season concludes.