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Player DetailBrian Branch
Brian Branch Injury News & Updates
Nov 24, 2025
Estimated as limited Monday
Branch (toe) was limited on Monday's estimated practice report.
ANALYSIS
Branch dealt with some toe issues in practice last week but ultimately played all 82 defensive snaps in Sunday's overtime win over the Giants. He should be fine for Thursday's Thanksgiving bout with the Packers.
Nov 24, 2025
Solid performance in Week 12
Branch tallied seven total tackles (three solo) and one pass defensed in Sunday's 34-27 overtime win over the Giants.
ANALYSIS
The third-year pro from Alabama tied Amik Robertson for the second-most tackles on the Lions defense during Sunday's win, trailing Jack Campbell's 11-stop performance. Branch has appeared in 10 games for the Lions this season, recording 59 total tackles, including 2.5 sacks, and six passes defensed. He's expected to remain one of the team's top defensive playmakers in the Week 13 matchup against the Packers.
Nov 21, 2025
Good to go for Week 12
Branch (toe) doesn't carry an injury designation into Sunday's game against the Giants, Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press reports.
ANALYSIS
Branch missed some practice time this week but should be all systems go against New York. Branch has produced 52 tackles (35 solo), including 2.5 sacks, five pass breakups and one forced fumble across nine games, all starts, this season.
Nov 20, 2025
Logs limited practice Thursday
Branch (toe) was a limited participant in Thursday's practice.
ANALYSIS
Branch was deemed limited in Wednesday's walkthrough due to a toe issue, but he was able to take part in practice in limited fashion Thursday. Whether or not he carries an injury designation into the weekend could depend on his practice status Friday. Branch played all but one defensive snap against Philadelphia this past Sunday.
Nov 19, 2025
Working through toe injury
Branch (toe) was estimated as a DNP on Wednesday's practice report.
ANALYSIS
The Lions conducted a walkthrough practice Wednesday, but Branch was unable to participate due to a toe injury that he likely picked up during Detroit's Week 11 loss to Philadelphia. His practice participation over the next two days will provide more clarity on his chances of playing against the Giants on Sunday. Branch has recorded 19 tackles (12 solo), including 1.5 sacks, across the three games since the Lions' Week 8 bye.
Nov 17, 2025
Posts six stops in Week 11 loss
Branch totaled six tackles (four solo) during the Lions' 16-9 loss to the Eagles on Sunday.
ANALYSIS
Branch played all but one of the Lions' 72 defensive snaps Sunday, and he finished in a three-way tie for the second most tackles on the team behind Jack Campbell (15). Branch has registered at least six tackles in each of the Lions' three games since the Week 8 bye and is up to 52 tackles (35 solo), including 2.5 sacks, five pass defenses and one forced fumble across nine regular-season games.
Nov 9, 2025
Strong performance in Week 10
Branch recorded seven total tackles (four solo), including 1.5 sacks, in Sunday's 44-22 win over the Commanders.
ANALYSIS
Branch led the team in stops, and he was able to get to Marcus Mariota twice in the contest, logging a full sack in the first quarter before combining with defensive tackle Roy Lopez to sack the quarterback in the third. The safety is now up to 46 total tackles (31 solo), including 2.5 sacks, while also compiling five passes defensed and a forced fumble over eight games this year.
Nov 4, 2025
Six stops in return
Branch recorded six tackles (four solo) in Sunday's 27-24 loss to the Vikings.
ANALYSIS
Branch returned to the field for the first time since serving a one-game suspension and played 100 percent of snaps. He had a modest stat line, but he now has at least six stops in all but two contests for the campaign.
Oct 21, 2025
On track for Week 9 return
Branch's suspension has been lifted after he sat out Week 7, per the NFL's transactions log.
ANALYSIS
Branch was forced to miss Monday's game versus the Buccaneers due to a one-game suspension, but he has the okay to return to action now that that has been served. He should fill right back in as Detroit's top safety in Week 9 versus the Vikings.
Oct 15, 2025
Won't play vs. Bucs
The NFL's one-game suspension of Branch was upheld Wednesday, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.
ANALYSIS
Branch was suspended for one game after getting into an altercation with multiple Chiefs players after their game in Week 6, and his appeal of the decision was unsuccessful. In his absence, Thomas Harper projects to start at safety alongside Kerby Joseph in Week 7. Branch should be eligible to return to game action in Week 9 versus the Vikings after Detroit's Week 8 bye.
Oct 13, 2025
Set to appeal suspension
Branch is expected to appeal his one-game suspension, Jeremy Fowler of ESPN.com reports.
ANALYSIS
Branch was suspended for one game after his altercation with multiple players on the Chiefs following Sunday night's 30-17 loss to Kansas City. The safety is set to miss the team's Week 7 matchup with the Buccaneers as a result, unless his appeal is successful and he is granted eligibility to play.
Oct 13, 2025
Suspended one game
The NFL announced Monday that Branch has been suspended one game following his altercation after Sunday night's loss to the Chiefs, which rules him out for Week 7 against the Buccaneers, Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reports.
ANALYSIS
The Lions have a bye Week 8, meaning Branch will next be eligible to play Week 9 against the Vikings on Sunday, Oct. 2. He played 100 percent of defensive snaps versus Kansas City despite being listed as 'questionable' contest due to an ankle injury, recording a season-high seven total tackles (four solo). As a result of Branch's suspension, Thomas Harper and Erick Hallett will be candidates to handle increased snaps at safety alongside starter Kerby Joseph versus Tampa Bay.
Oct 12, 2025
Good to go against Kansas City
Branch (ankle) is active for Sunday's game against the Chiefs.
ANALYSIS
The Lions will be with both starting safeties in Branch and Kerby Joseph (knee) for Sunday's contest after the two of them were initially listed as questionable. Branch has 26 tackles (19 solo), including 1.0 sacks, five pass defenses and one forced fumble through five regular-season games.
Oct 10, 2025
Questionable for Week 6
Branch (ankle) did not practice Friday and is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Chiefs, Justin Rogers of DetroitFootball.net reports.
ANALYSIS
Branch sustained an ankle injury during the Lions' Week 5 win over the Bengals. He opened the week with back-to-back limited practices before sitting out of Friday's session, and his official status may not be known until the Lions announce their list of inactive players approximately 90 minutes before Sunday's 8:20 p.m. ET kickoff. The Lions' secondary is dealing with multiple injuries, so Branch's absence may lead to Thomas Harper and Loren Strickland -- both of whom have been restricted to special-teams work this season -- seeing the field on defense.
Oct 9, 2025
Still limited Thursday
Branch (ankle) remained limited in Thursday's practice.
ANALYSIS
Branch briefly left last Sunday's win over the Bengals and has now logged back-to-back limited practices to open preparation for Week 6. Across five games this season, Branch has posted 26 tackles (19 solo), including 1.0 sacks, and five pass breakups on 97 percent of the defensive snaps.
Oct 8, 2025
Working through ankle injury
Branch was a limited participant in Wednesday's practice due to an ankle injury.
ANALYSIS
Branch logged four tackles (one solo) during the Lions' Week 5 win over the Bengals. He briefly left the game due to an injury, and it is an ankle issue that limited his participation during the Lions' first practice of the week. Branch will have two more days to upgrade his practice participation and avoid an injury tag heading into Sunday's road clash against the Chiefs.
Oct 6, 2025
Posts modest numbers in Week 5
Branch finished with four tackles (one solo) Sunday in a 37-24 victory versus Cincinnati.
ANALYSIS
Branch briefly left the game due to a leg injury in the third quarter, but he was able to return on the same Bengals possession. His four stops were a season low, but he's been consistent with between four and six tackles in each of his five games so far this season.
Sep 29, 2025
Defends three passes vs. Cleveland
Branch logged five tackles (three solo) and three pass defenses during the Lions' 34-10 win over the Browns on Sunday.
ANALYSIS
Branch was one of three Lions defenders to play every single snap and was responsible for three of the team's 10 pass defenses against Browns quarterback Joe Flacco. Branch is up to 22 total tackles through four games, and he is on pace to crack 100 tackles for a second consecutive season.
Sep 23, 2025
Notches six stops against Ravens
Branch finished Monday's 38-30 Week 3 win over Baltimore with six tackles (five solo) and a defensed pass.
ANALYSIS
Branch's six tackles tied for second-most among Detroit defenders. Through three weeks, he's posted 17 stops, two pass defenses and a forced fumble.
Sep 16, 2025
Dominant in win
Branch tallied six tackles (six solo), including 1.0 sacks, during Detroit's win over the Bears on Sunday.
ANALYSIS
Branch had a dominant outing during Sunday's blowout win as he matched Terrion Arnold for the most solo tackles on the team in addition to recording one of Detroit's two sacks of Caleb Williams. Branch has now amassed 11 tackles (10 solo) across the first two games of the season and will look to add to those totals during the team's Week 3 matchup versus Baltimore.
Sep 8, 2025
Commits costly penalty vs. Packers
Branch recorded five tackles (four solo) during the Lions' 27-13 loss to the Packers on Sunday.
ANALYSIS
Branch played all 48 defensive snaps and finished tied for fourth most in tackles for Detroit. He was flagged for a 15-yard unsportsmanlike conduct penalty early in the first quarter after ripping off Tucker Kraft's helmet and tossing it to the sidelines. That penalty put the Packers in the red zone and led to a 15-yard touchdown pass from Jordan Love to Kraft three plays later. Branch and the Lions will look to bounce back in Week 2 as they welcome in the Bears on Sunday.
Jan 27, 2025
Monster year 2 with Detroit
Branch finished the 2024 regular season with 109 total tackles (79 solo), including 1.0 sacks, while also adding 16 passes defensed, including four interceptions, and a forced fumble over 16 games.
ANALYSIS
Branch finished second on the team in tackles, only trailing linebacker Jack Campbell, while he was also able to intercept one more pass in 2024 than he did in his rookie campaign last year. Branch proved his versatility throughout the season as well, splitting time between safety and slot cornerback. The 23-year-old is off to quite the hot start in his NFL career and he'll look to take another step up in 2025.
Dec 31, 2024
Notches sack in win
Branch recorded seven total tackles (four solo), including 1.0 sacks, in Monday night's 40-34 win over the 49ers.
ANALYSIS
Branch was able to secure his first sack of the season, bringing down Brock Purdy in the fourth quarter. Additionally, the 23-year-old produced at least seven tackles for the third game in a row and seventh time overall in 2024. On the year, Branch has now compiled 103 total tackles (76 solo), including 1.0 sacks, a forced fumble and 15 passes defensed, including four interceptions, over 15 games.
Dec 23, 2024
Paces Detroit in tackles
Branch recorded 12 total tackles (10 solo), including one tackle for loss, and defended one pass in Sunday's 34-17 win over the Bears.
ANALYSIS
The second-year pro from Alabama returned to his usual starting spot of slot corner for the first time this season with Ifeatu Melifonwu making his 2024 debut and returning from injured reserve in Week 16. Branch has now logged back-to-back games of 12 or more tackles, accumulating 26 stops and two passes defended during that span. He's responsible for five turnovers (four interceptions and one forced fumble) this season and is expected to continue making plays in the Week 17 matchup against the 49ers.
Dec 23, 2024
Double-digit stops in win
Branch recorded 12 total tackles (10 solo) and a pass defensed in Sunday's 34-17 win over the Bears.
ANALYSIS
Branch was able to reach at least 10 tackles for the second week in a row and third time overall on the season. The defensive back has split his time between slot cornerback and safety in 2024, compiling 96 total tackles (72 solo), a forced fumble and 14 passes defensed, including four interceptions, over 14 games.
Dec 22, 2024
Good to go against Chicago
Branch (calf) is active for Sunday's game against the Bears.
ANALYSIS
Branch opened the week as a DNP on Wednesday due to a calf injury he likely picked up during the Lions' Week 15 loss to the Bills. He was able to log consecutive limited practices to end the week and has progressed enough in his recovery to play in Sunday's NFC North showdown. Branch has played every single defensive snap in three of the Lions' last five games, and over that span he has registered 34 tackles (24 solo) and one pass defense.
Dec 20, 2024
Questionable for Sunday
Branch (calf) is listed as questionable ahead of Sunday's matchup against the Bears, Justin Rogers of DetroitFootball.net reports.
ANALYSIS
Branch opened the Lions' week of practice with a DNP, but he's logged two consecutive limited sessions since, so it appears he's trending in the right direction ahead of Sunday's divisional contest. The second-year pro from Alabama has impressed this season, recording 84 total tackles and 14 passes defended, including four interceptions, over 13 appearances. If Branch can play through his calf injury in Week 16, he'll start alongside Kerby Joseph as part of Detroit's top safety duo.
Dec 19, 2024
Returns to practice Thursday
Branch (calf) was a limited participant in practice Thursday.
ANALYSIS
Branch didn't practice Wednesday, but he was able to participate in a limited fashion Thursday. That bodes well for his chance of suiting up Sunday versus Chicago, though the second-year safety could still head into the weekend with an injury designation, especially if he doesn't log a full practice Friday. Branch is coming off a big game Week 15 against Buffalo, as he logged a career-high 14 tackles in a six-point loss.
Dec 18, 2024
Nursing calf injury
Branch (calf) was listed as a DNP on Wednesday's practice report.
ANALYSIS
Branch logged a career-high 15 total tackles and played in every defensive snap during the Lions' 48-42 loss to the Bills this past Sunday. However, it appears the second-year safety picked up a calf injury in the process and was sidelined for Detroit's first official practice of the week. Branch will have two more chances to practice this week ahead of Sunday's NFC North clash against the Bears. He's logged 85 tackles (62 solo), 14 pass defenses (including four interceptions) and one forced fumble across 13 regular-season games.
Dec 16, 2024
Career high in tackles in loss
Branch recorded 15 total tackles (eight solo) in Sunday's 48-42 loss to Buffalo.
ANALYSIS
Branch paced the team in takedowns, compiling a career-high 15 stops in the battle between two high-octane offenses. With Detroit's defense banged up, including the secondary, Branch found himself involved in countless plays Sunday. It's the second time this year that the safety reached double-digit tackles and he's now registered 85 total tackles (62 solo), 13 passes defensed, including four interceptions, and a forced fumble over 13 games in 2024.
Dec 11, 2024
Not on injury report Wednesday
Branch (cramps) does not appear on Detroit's injury report Wednesday.
ANALYSIS
Branch left the Lions' Week 14 game against the Packers last Thursday early, but it appears he was dealing only with cramps. Since he's not on Detroit's injury report to begin the week, the second-year safety should have no problem suiting up Sunday versus Buffalo. Branch has put up excellent numbers this season, registering 70 tackles (54 solo) and 13 pass defenses, including four interceptions, through 12 contests.
Dec 5, 2024
Dealing with cramps
Branch is questionable to return to Thursday's game against the Packers due to cramping.
ANALYSIS
Branch went down late in the fourth quarter and was able to limp off the field. Even if he can't return to Thursday's contest, he's avoided a serious injury.
Nov 30, 2024
Leads team in stops Thursday
Branch posted six tackles (five solo) in Thursday's 23-20 win over Chicago.
ANALYSIS
Branch's tackle total led the Lions in the Thanksgiving Day victory. The safety has recorded at least six stops in eight of his 11 games this season, and he's up to 67 tackles on the campaign -- seven fewer than he registered across 15 contests as a rookie last year. Branch also has four interceptions on the season, making him a valuable IDP asset at his position.
Nov 18, 2024
Tallies seven tackles vs. Jaguars
Branch recorded seven total tackles (five solo) in Sunday's 52-6 win over the Jaguars.
ANALYSIS
Branch finished Sunday's blowout win as the Lions' second-leading tackler, trailing just Jack Campbell's nine-stop performance. The 23-year-old from Alabama has emerged as one of the best playmakers in the NFL in his second season, recording 57 total tackles and 13 passes defended, including four interceptions, through just nine appearances. He's expected to continue starting alongside Kerby Joseph as part of one of the best safety duos in the NFL in the Week 12 matchup against the Colts.
Nov 11, 2024
Double-digit stops in win
Branch recorded 10 total tackles (six solo) and two passes defensed in Sunday night's 26-23 win over the Texans.
ANALYSIS
Branch made his return to the field after being ejected in the first half of the team's Week 9 win over the Packers. The safety notched a season-high 10 tackles while playing all 65 of Detroit's defensive snaps against Houston. Branch is having a very impressive 2024 campaign thus far, compiling 50 total tackles (38 solo), four interceptions, 13 passes defensed and a forced fumble over eight games.
Nov 5, 2024
Ejected versus Green Bay
Branch logged two tackles (one solo) during Detroit's win over the Packers on Sunday.
ANALYSIS
Branch recorded his lowest tackle total of the season as he was ejected in the first half due to a late hit. The second-year pro has amassed 40 tackles (32 solo) and four interceptions across seven appearances this season and will look to add to his total Week 10 versus the Texans.
Oct 21, 2024
Another interception in Week 7
Branch recorded four solo tackles, an interception and two passes defensed in Sunday's 31-29 win over the Vikings.
ANALYSIS
Branch continued his hot start to the season in Week 7, snatching his fourth interception of the year, picking off Sam Darnold in the second quarter. The safety has now compiled 32 total tackles (25 solo), four interceptions, 11 passes defensed and a forced fumble over five games in 2024.
Oct 17, 2024
Logs full practice
Branch (knee) was a full participant at Thursday's practice.
ANALYSIS
Branch was limited at Wednesday's practice, but his full participation Thursday indicates the Lions' were simply erring on the side of caution. Barring any setbacks, the starting strong safety should be good to go for Sunday's matchup with Minnesota.
Oct 16, 2024
Dealing with knee injury
Branch (knee) was a limited participant in Wednesday's practice.
ANALYSIS
Branch appears to have sustained a knee injury in the Lions' Week 6 win over the Cowboys, despite playing 49 defensive snaps and recording six total tackles, two interceptions and one forced fumble. The second-year pro's participation Thursday and Friday will provide a better indication of whether he can play through this issue in Detroit's Week 7 divisional matchup against the Vikings.
Oct 14, 2024
Monster performance in blowout win
Branch recorded six total tackles (five solo), two interceptions, two passes defensed and a forced fumble in Sunday's 47-9 win over the Cowboys.
ANALYSIS
Branch was a man on a mission in Week 6, picking off Dak Prescott in both the first quarter and the fourth quarter, the latter of which he nearly returned for a touchdown. On top of that, the safety stripped wide receiver Ryan Flournoy in the third quarter, which was recovered by teammate Terrion Arnold. Branch has emerged as one of the most dynamic safeties in the NFL this season, compiling 28 total tackles (21 solo), three interceptions, nine passes defensed and a forced fumble over five games in 2024.
Oct 9, 2024
Full go Wednesday
Branch (illness) was listed as a full participant on Wednesday's practice estimation, Tim Twentyman of the Lions' official site reports.
ANALYSIS
Branch appears to be past his illness after having more than a week to recover since missing the Lions' Week 4 win over the Seahawks on Sept. 30. The second-year pro has recorded 22 total tackles and seven passes defended, including one interception, across three games this season. Expect Branch to continue serving as the Lions' top strong safety as the year progresses.
Oct 7, 2024
Getting in practice reps Monday
Coach Dan Campbell said Monday that Branch (illness) was back at practice, Tim Twentyman of the Lions' official site reports.
ANALYSIS
Branch missed Detroit's game in Week 4 due to an illness before its bye in Week 5, but that he's participating at practices again signals he has probably recovered by this point. The Lions' first official practice report Wednesday will shed more light on his potential availability for Week 6.
Sep 30, 2024
Inactive Monday
Branch (illness) is inactive for Monday's game against the Seahawks.
ANALYSIS
The safety suffered a concussion during the Lions' Week 3 win over the Cardinals but was off the injury report by Saturday. However, he was downgraded to doubtful Sunday due to the illness. Brandon Joseph should be in line to play in his place.
Sep 29, 2024
Downgraded
Branch (illness) is doubtful for Monday's game against the Seahawks.
ANALYSIS
Branch was originally questionable for Week 4 due to suffering a concussion in the Lions' Week 3 win over the Cardinals. However, the second-year pro was cleared from the injury report Saturday, suggesting he had made it through the league's five-step concussion protocols. However, now that he's under the weather, Branch's likely absence from MNF will have Brandon Joseph in line to see extra opportunities in the secondary.
Sep 28, 2024
Ready to rock
Branch (neck) has no injury designation ahead of Monday night's matchup against the Lions, Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reports.
ANALYSIS
Branch spent time in concussion protocol after leaving the Lions' Week 3 win over the Cardinals, but it now appears he's moved past the issue in time for Monday night's contest. The second-year pro is a vital piece of Detroit's secondary and is expected to serve as the team's top strong safety in Week 4.
Sep 27, 2024
Logs full practice
Branch (concussion) was a full participant at the Lions' practice Friday, Eric Woodyard of ESPN.com reports.
ANALYSIS
Branch continues to progress through concussion protocols and by logging a full practice Friday, he's on the cusp of being cleared. The Lions will host the Seahawks on Monday Night Football and Branch appears to be on track to be a full go.
Sep 26, 2024
Limited to open week
Branch (concussion) was limited during Thursday's practice session.
ANALYSIS
Branch entered the league's concussion protocols following Sunday's 20-13 win over the Cardinals. The fact he was able to open the week in a limited fashion indicates that Branch has progressed through some of the protocols, but he'll need to continue to move through the protocols in order to be available for Monday's game against the Seahawks. Through the first three games of the season, Branch has tallied 22 tackles (16 solo), seven passes defended and one interception.
Sep 22, 2024
In concussion protocol
Branch is in the concussion protocol after leaving Sunday's 20-13 win over the Cardinals with a neck injury, Nolan Bianchi of The Detroit News reports.
ANALYSIS
The starting safety will have to clear the NFL's five-step concussion protocol to play next week against the Seahawks. Branch played a major role in a stellar defensive effort for the Lions on Sunday, finishing with nine tackles (six solo), including one for a loss, and two passes defensed. Brandon Joseph and Loren Strickland are the healthy backup safeties on Detroit's roster at the moment.
Sep 22, 2024
Questionable to return
Branch (neck) is questionable to return to Sunday's game against the Cardinals.
ANALYSIS
The safety was having a strong game before exiting, recording nine tackles (six solo), including one for a loss, and two passes defensed. Branch also helped Detroit limit a high-flying Arizona offense to just 13 points and less than 300 yards of offense late into the fourth quarter. Brandon Joseph and Loren Strickland are Detroit's extra safeties on the active roster Sunday.
Sep 16, 2024
Snags interception in loss
Branch recorded six total tackles (five solo), an interception and two passes defensed in Sunday's 20-16 loss to Tampa Bay.
ANALYSIS
Branch was once again very active in Week 2, finishing tied with Jack Campbell for the team lead in tackles. The 22-year-old was also able to secure his first interception of the 2024 campaign, picking off Baker Mayfield right before halftime. Through two contests, Branch has compiled 13 total tackles (10 solo), an interception and five passes defensed.
Jul 24, 2024
Comes off PUP list
The Lions activated Branch (lower leg) off the active/PUP list Wednesday, Aaron Wilson of KPRC 2 Houston reports.
ANALYSIS
Branch had a clean-up surgery on his lower leg earlier in the offseason, but he's now passed his physical and is ready to return to the field. The 2023 second-round pick out of Alabama had a great rookie campaign, posting 74 total tackles and 13 passes defended, including three interceptions, and he's expected to remain one of Detroit's top defensive backs in 2024.
Jul 21, 2024
Goes to PUP list
Detroit placed Branch (lower leg) on its active/PUP list Sunday, Tim Twentyman of the Lions' official site reports.
ANALYSIS
Branch underwent an optional procedure during the offseason to clean up some damage to his ankle, and he's apparently still recovering from that as training camp gets underway. Coach Dan Campbell said in the spring that Branch would be ready to go in plenty of time for Week 1, but time is starting to run short on that.
May 26, 2024
Likely out until training camp
Branch recently underwent a cleanup procedure on his lower left leg and will likely be sidelined until training camp, Colton Pouncey of The Athletic reports.
ANALYSIS
The Lions initially thought Branch's lower left leg injury would heal on its own, but he elected to undergo a procedure so he could rehab ahead of the regular season. However, coach Dan Campbell said Thursday that Branch is progressing well and will likely be able to do some work before the regular season begins, Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press reports. Branch was recently seen on a knee scooter around the team's facility. The 22-year-old was solid as a rookie last year, tallying 74 tackles (50 solo), including a sack, along with 13 pass defenses, three interceptions, a forced fumble and a touchdown.
Feb 27, 2024
Impressive rookie season
Branch registered 74 tackles, one sack, 13 pass breakups, three interceptions, one defensive touchdown and one forced fumble over 15 games in 2023.
ANALYSIS
Impressing at both safety and nickelback as a rookie, Branch ultimately settled in at the latter position despite the Lions spending $6.5 million to bring in C.J. Gardner-Johnson, who was moved to safety to accommodate. Branch ultimately finished the year tied for 12th among cornerbacks in both PBUs and picks. While it remains possible that the Alabama product could see added responsibilities at safety again in the future, he at least seems to be locked in at the nickelback spot entering 2024.
Jan 7, 2024
Returns to game
Branch (wrist) has returned to Sunday's game against the Vikings, Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press reports.
ANALYSIS
Branch left Sunday's game for a short period of time to deal with a wrist injury. It appears the issue is not serious, as he has returned to the field.
Jan 7, 2024
Departs Week 18 with wrist injury
Branch (wrist) is questionable to return to Sunday's game against the Vikings, Justin Rogers of The Detroit News reports.
ANALYSIS
Branch sustained a wrist injury in the second half of Sunday's game and walked with trainers to the locker room. He had one solo tackle before exiting the game.
Dec 26, 2023
Has huge game at Minnesota
Branch recorded six tackles (five solo) including a sack and a forced fumble and an interception in Sunday's 30-24 win at Minnesota.
ANALYSIS
Early in the second quarter, Branch came blazing through the B gap on a blitz and dislodged the ball from the hands of Nick Mullens. That play didn't result in a turnover, but Branch had already achieved that himself in the first quarter with his third pick of the season. The rookie second-rounder is starting to look like he was a home-run pick for the Lions.
Dec 18, 2023
Focusing on nickel cornerback
Defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn said that Branch will focus on nickel cornerback, Kyle Meinke of MLive.com reports. "...I wanted to make sure that I dial it back for (Branch), let him focus on nickel, let him play nickel, and I thought it was a really good game for him. As far as the stats because he didn't get a chance to be high productive like he's been, but I thought he did a really good job in just playing nickel," Glenn said.
ANALYSIS
Branch logged at least six tackles and 93 percent of the playing time between in all but one game between Week 8 and Week 13, but he has not topped three tackles or 73 percent of the defensive snaps in either of the two games since then. Meanwhile, Ifeatu Melifonwu saw almost every snap and had an extremely productive game. While Branch was likely set for a dip in playing time regardless given the impending return of C.J. Gardner-Johnson (pectoral), his IDP value will take a hit if he is not even a candidate to see snaps at safety going forward.
Dec 5, 2023
Nabs another pick in win
Branch logged seven total tackles (three solo), one pass deflection and one interception in Sunday's 33-28 win over the Saints.
ANALYSIS
The 2023 second-round pick's seven stops were tied for the second-most on Detroit during Sunday's contest, bringing his season total up to 58 tackles. Branch also snagged the second interception of his young career, setting up the Lions' offense for an easy touchdown in the first quarter. The nickel-safety has made a tremendous impact on Detroit's defense in his first season, ranking first on the team in pass deflections and tackles for loss, and he'll look to continue his causing problems for opposing offenses as the year goes on.
Nov 24, 2023
Leads Lions with eight stops
Branch totaled eight tackles (three solo) in Thursday's Week 12 loss to the Packers.
ANALYSIS
Branch's eight stops led Detroit and were his most since he racked up 11 tackles against Atlanta in Week 3. The 22-year-old has been a fairly reliable IDP option over the Lions' past four games with an average of of six stops per game during that span. Branch has been one of the league's top defensive rookies this year, notching 51 tackles (36 solo) and an interception (which he returned for a touchdown) over nine contests.
Oct 20, 2023
Will play at Baltimore
Branch (ankle) does not carry an injury designation into Sunday's game at the Ravens, Eric Woodyard of ESPN.com reports.
ANALYSIS
Branch will return from a two-game absence in Week 7, now apparently back to full strength after sustaining an ankle injury in Week 4 at Green Bay. He should start as Detroit's slot corner Sunday.
Oct 19, 2023
Anticipates playing this week
Branch (ankle) said Thursday that he'll play against the Ravens this Sunday, Justin Rogers of The Detroit News reports.
ANALYSIS
Branch missed the past two games and was a limited practice participant both Wednesday and Thursday this week. He's listed as a safety on most fantasy sites but has taken a vast majority of his snaps as a slot corner and quickly become a fan favorite in Detroit. The rookie second-round pick has 25 tackles (21 solo), four pass defenses and a pick-six in four appearances.
Oct 18, 2023
Limited at walkthrough
Branch (ankle) was limited in Detroit's walkthrough Wednesday.
ANALYSIS
Branch has missed the team's past two games with an ankle injury but is now one step closer to returning to the field. The rookie second-round pick will look to return to action versus the Ravens on Sunday and help slow down Lamar Jackson and the rest of the offense.
Oct 13, 2023
Out again
Branch (ankle) will not play in Sunday's game in Tampa Bay, Jenna Laine of ESPN.com report.
ANALYSIS
Branch's absence will mark his second straight after being carted off the field in the Lions' Week 4 win over the Packers. Detroit did not opt to place him on injured reserve, so that indicates they still do not think he will be out much longer. His absence against the Bucs could lead to more opportunities for Will Harris and Ifeatu Melifonwu as depth options at safety.
Oct 6, 2023
Won't play Week 5
Branch (ankle) has been ruled out for Sunday's Week 5 contest against Carolina.
ANALYSIS
Branch was carted off the field after hurting his ankle in the third quarter of last Thursday's win over Green Bay, though he was able to return to that game in the fourth period. X-rays following the win came back negative, but Branch was unable to practice in any capacity this week and has been ruled out for Sunday. He'll look to improve enough to play Week 6 in Tampa Bay.
Oct 4, 2023
Estimated as non-participant
Branch (ankle) was listed as a non-participant on Detroit's practice estimate Wednesday.
ANALYSIS
Although the X-rays from the ankle injury Branch sustained in Week 4 at Green Bay came back negative, it seems he's still working through the issue at this point. He'll probably need to practice in some capacity Thursday or Friday to have a chance to suit up Sunday versus Carolina.
Sep 29, 2023
Avoids serious injury
Coach Dan Campbell said Friday that the ankle injury Branch sustained Thursday at Green Bay doesn't appear to be anything too serious, Kyle Meinke of MLive.com reports.
ANALYSIS
As the negative results of his x-rays would suggest, Branch dodged a severe injury in Week 4. With that being said, it's still not a certainty that he'll be ready for Week 5 even with the extended week to prepare.
Sep 29, 2023
Undergoes X-rays
X-rays on Branch's ankle returned negative following Thursday's 34-20 win over the Packers, Mike Garafolo of NFL Network reports.
ANALYSIS
Branch was forced to exit the game in the first half, though he was ultimately able to return. Both the fact that he retook the field and the initial imaging suggest the injury isn't overly serious, though more information should emerge in the coming days.
Sep 28, 2023
Back in game
Branch (ankle) returned to Thursday's contest with the Packers, Colton Pouncy of The Athletic reports.
ANALYSIS
Branch was able to return to the field in the fourth quarter after he was carted off with an ankle injury in the third. The rookie will be back in his starting role at free safety.
Sep 28, 2023
Carted to locker room
Branch (ankle) is questionable to return to Thursday's contest with the Packers, Colton Pouncy of The Athletic reports.
ANALYSIS
Branch suffered an ankle injury in the third quarter of the Lions' matchup with Green Bay, ultimately being helped off the field before being carted to the locker room. The defensive back will be replaced by Brandon Joseph for the time being.
Sep 25, 2023
Shines in first start
Branch totaled 11 tackles with three tackles for loss and two pass breakups in Sunday's 20-6 win over Atlanta.
ANALYSIS
Making his first career start with C.J. Gardner-Johnson (pectoral) and Kerby Joseph (hip) on the shelf, Branch logged every defensive snap and turned heads while doing so. While the rookie did commit a pair of 15-yard personal fouls along the way -- including a highly debatable unnecessary roughness call for a helmet-jarring tackle of Falcons running back Bijan Robinson -- the good far outweighed the bad. With Gardner-Johnson set to miss at least the next three weeks on injured reserve and Joseph yet to practice since his Week 2 injury, Branch could remain an every-down player for the foreseeable future.
Sep 13, 2023
Absent from injury report
Branch, who left Week 1 early due to cramps, is not on the team's estimated injury report Wednesday.
ANALYSIS
Branch's ability to avoid the injury report is good news for the defense, as the Alabama product should continue to play a significant role in the team's secondary. Operating as the team's nickelback, he should be on the field Sunday against the Seahawks.
Sep 7, 2023
Leaves opening game
Branch left the season opener against the Chiefs on Thursday with cramps.
ANALYSIS
The rookie nickel cornerback was listed as questionable to return. Branch returned an interception for a touchdown in the first half but exited in the second half. The second-round pick out of Alabama won the nickel job in training camp and got free-agent signing C.J. Gardner-Johnson to move to safety.
Aug 25, 2023
Headed for starting role
Branch is expected to be the starter at nickel cornerback, Tim Twentyman of the Lions' official site reports.
ANALYSIS
Branch has reportedly been so good that offseason acquisition C.J. Gardner-Johnson was moved to safety to accommodate getting both players on the field together as much as possible. In this role at Alabama last year, Branch racked up 90 tackles, 14 TFLs, three sacks, seven PBUs, and two interceptions over 13 games.
Apr 28, 2023
Motor City bound
The Lions selected Branch in the second round of the 2023 NFL Draft, 45th overall.
ANALYSIS
It's a light class in terms of safety prospects, but Branch clearly stands above the rest. The Alabama product was used all over the field in Tuscaloosa and chipped in 90 tackles to go with nine pass breakups in 2022 to bring his career total to 27 in three years. Branch is light for a safety at 190 pounds, but the tenacity he plays with suggests that he'll be able to hold up and bring ball carriers to the ground. Look for Branch to primarily play nickel corner but also put in time at safety, especially if Tracy Walker (Achilles) is sidelined to start the year.
Apr 28, 2023
Motor City bound
The Lions selected Branch in the second round of the 2023 NFL Draft, 45th overall.
ANALYSIS
It's a light class in terms of safety prospects, but Branch clearly stands above the rest. The Alabama product was used all over the field in Tuscaloosa and chipped in 90 tackles to go with nine pass breakups in 2022 to bring his career total to 27 in three years. Branch is light for a safety at 190 pounds, but the tenacity he plays with suggests that he'll be able to hold up and bring ball carriers to the ground. Look for Branch to primarily play nickel corner but also put in time at safety, especially if Tracy Walker (Achilles) is sidelined to start the year.
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NFLWeek 13
 Detroit 7-439% -2½ -114Caesars | |||||||
 Dallas 5-5-149% +3½ -118SugarHouse | |||||||
 Baltimore 6-517% -6½ -115Bet365 | |||||||
 Philadelphia 8-339% -6½ -125BetMGM | |||||||
 Indianapolis 8-332% -3½ -110Bet365 | |||||||
 Tampa Bay 6-543% -2½ -115Bet365 | |||||||
 Tennessee 1-1087% +7 -120SugarHouse | |||||||
 Carolina 6-6- +10½ -109BetRivers | |||||||
 Miami 4-712% -5½ -112BetRivers | |||||||
 N.Y. Jets 2-981% +3 -120SugarHouse | |||||||
 Cleveland 3-840% +6 -109BetRivers | |||||||
 Seattle 8-319% -10½ -105Bet365 | |||||||
 Pittsburgh 6-582% +4½ -115BetRivers | |||||||
 L.A. Chargers 7-418% -9½ -110Bet365 | |||||||
 Washington 3-887% +6½ -102BetMGM | |||||||
 New England 10-220% -7½ -105Caesars |
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