Branch: 'I’m Basically Like a Linebacker That Can Cover'
Detroit Lions safety Brian Branch introduced himself to fans with a bang.
In the preseason opener against the New York Giants, he delivered a bone-crushing hit on wide receiver Cole Beasley, on a short pass early in the game.
That big play has been a sign of things to come, as the rookie has drawn rave reviews and does something special seemingly every day in practice.
This physicality is no surprise to those who followed Branch's career at Alabama. He was one of the best tacklers at the collegiate level throughout his career, missing just four tackles in three seasons, per Pro Football Focus.
Branch was one of the best PFF-graded defenders in the draft. He posted a 91.8 tackling grade and an 86.4 coverage grade during the 2022 season.
"I'm basically like a linebacker who can cover," the rookie explained. "I'm close to the line of scrimmage, a lot more stuff goes on near the line of scrimmage. And, being able to hit and cover at the same time."
Preparing for Mahomes
Branch will face a tough challenge in his NFL debut for the Detroit Lions.
The Lions will start the season on the national stage against the Kansas City Chiefs, which boast one of the best quarterbacks in recent memory in Patrick Mahomes.
Branch has worked his way into a starting role for the team's defense, after a strong training camp.
As the team's starting nickel, the rookie will play a significant part in whether the Lions can be successful or not against the league's reigning champion.
"I've been thinking about Mahomes since last week," Branch explained. "I think I'm gonna start really watching film on them this week for sure. Just seeing what their tendencies are, and they've got a great quarterback. But, we've also go against a great quarterback here. We feel like he's prepared us."
Learning as a 'Baby-Pro'
The rookie may be a surprise to those who didn't feel he was worthy of a first-round pick. However, those close to him know he was being readied for a pro career since he stepped on to campus at Alabama years ago.
"Alabama's prepared me tremendously," Branch explained. "Being at a school like that, you almost are kind of, not necessarily a pro, but a 'baby-pro' in a way. You've gotta learn how to do things on your own, with coaches not around. Being used to that, I feel like, has helped me transition to the next level."
Atop his list of skills has been his ability to get involved on every play. He can cover, and uses his instincts to find the football in the run game.
"I've been playing this game for a long time. I feel like that's part of the reason," Branch explained. "And then, watching film on my off time. Studying what the opposing offense is doing."
Veteran safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson's influence on the Lions' young secondary has been no secret. He's filled the defensive backs room with an injection of swagger and trash-talk designed to elevate the whole group.
Among those learning the most from him is Branch, who has wasted no time soaking up his teammate's influence.
"I learned a lot from him. C.J.'s a great safety, a great DB and also a great person," the rookie explained. "He's one of those teammates that you want to have around. Yeah, he talks a lot, but he backs it up. He comes to work every day no matter what the circumstances are, and that's somebody that you want to lean on. Hard-working, somebody who's done this before and can give you advice."
Notes
1.) Former Lions and current Panthers WR DJ Chark suffered a hamstring injury, according to reports Wednesday. The Lions and Panthers square off Friday in preseason action.
2.) Wednesday's walkthrough saw several players sit out. Among them were offensive linemen Frank Ragnow and Taylor Decker. Defensive lineman John Cominsky did not participate, and neither did Jermar Jefferson or Saivion Smith.
Wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown participated on a limited basis.
3.) Branch will face off with his college teammate Bryce Young for the first time, when the Lions and Panthers battle Friday night.
"I'm excited to go against him this Friday," Branch said. "He's a good quarterback as well, and he's got a lot of tools in his toolbox that just aren't teachable. I can't wait to go against him to see how much he's progressed over this transition."
