Brian Branch immediately looked like a draft steal for the Detroit Lions when he dropped to 45th overall in the 2023 draft. He proved that correct as a rookie, finishing fifth on the team in tackles (74) with seven tackles for loss, three interceptions (second on the team) and a team-high 13 pass breakups.
Serving as the primary nickel corner for the Lions, Branch was Pro Football Focus' 14th-highest graded corner last season, with a top-10 run defense grade (83.9) at the position.
The Lions' additions at cornerback this offseason has pushed Branch toward primarily playing safety this year. In a broader sense, he's lined up to hardly ever come off the field and he could be even more impactful to Aaron Glenn's defense playing safety.
But, among all the talent the Lions have, it can be easy to overlook Branch. His contributions as a rookie were notable, yet fairly unglamorous due to the Lions' pass defense being so bad overall. But that perimeter cornerback issue was aggressively addressed this offseason.
Brian Branch getting late attention as a 2024 breakout candidate
Cody Benjamin of CBS Sports recently created a list highlighting 12 of the most underrated players in the NFL. Branch's new role in the Lions' defense is at the core of his placement on the list.
"The second-year Alabama product certainly isn't a no-name, drawing Defensive Rookie of the Year consideration in 2023. But he's poised for a more expansive impact after primarily manning the slot in his NFL debut, taking his top-level instincts to the back end, behind new cover men like Terrion Arnold."
Justin Melo of The Draft Network has tabbed Branch as his breakout player for the Lions this year, also pointing to an expanded role.
"The Lions are a matchup-based defense under head coach Dan Campbell, so expect Branch to continue playing nickel and safety as necessary. Branch is talented and versatile enough to see increased usage through his entire sophomore season....Branch should establish himself as an elite versatile defender as a sophomore."
Players tend to make a big jump (if they're going to) in Year 2, with a year of experience under their belt. It's hard to believe Branch could be a whole lot better in his second season, but there's a path to it with a more versatile role coming.