NFL Network's Jason La Canfora is reporting via Twitter that Raiders strong safety Tyvon Branch will sign his franchise tender and report to the team today. While the Raiders and Branch will likely continue discussing a long-term deal, the news guarantees that Branch will be back for the 2012-13 season on the 1-year, $6.22 million contract. The Raiders have multiple OTAs scheduled for mid-May, so the timing of this signing allows Branch to come in and familiarize himself with the new defensive coaching staff and scheme. Excellent news for the Raiders.