SideLion Report
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Evaluations and grades for each Detroit Lions pick in 2023 NFL Draft

By Zach Payne

KNOXVILLE, TENNESSEE - SEPTEMBER 24: Hendon Hooker #5 of the Tennessee Volunteers looks to throw against the Florida Gators at Neyland Stadium on September 24, 2022 in Knoxville, Tennessee. Tennessee won the game 38-33. (Photo by Donald Page/Getty Images)
KNOXVILLE, TENNESSEE - SEPTEMBER 24: Hendon Hooker #5 of the Tennessee Volunteers looks to throw against the Florida Gators at Neyland Stadium on September 24, 2022 in Knoxville, Tennessee. Tennessee won the game 38-33. (Photo by Donald Page/Getty Images) /
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Brian Branch, Detroit Lions
Credit: Jonathan Bachman/Getty Images /

Round 2, Pick 45: Brian Branch, CB/S, Alabama 

Sitting with the 48th pick, Holmes and company were watching their board, and watching Brian Branch fall. As he got closer and closer to them, the Detroit Lions simply could not wait any longer and jumped up three spots to snag Branch at No. 45.

This is pretty easily the best pick the Lions made in the draft. Branch is an elite player who fits everything they want out of someone in the nickel/safety hybrid role. While not the fastest, Branch plays with an intensity against the run and in coverage that makes him frustrating for opposing players to play against. He also very well could have the best instincts of any defensive player in the draft.

Branch likely starts out in a smaller role due to the presence of C.J. Gardner-Johnson on the roster. However, Branch should serve as the starting nickel for the next several years after spending his rookie year learning from one of the best in the league at the position.

Grade: A+

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