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Brian Branch Reveals Why He Can 'Blitz' Much More in 2024

Brian Branch spoke to Sports Illustrated after Monday's practice.

John Maakaron

Detroit Lions defensive back Brian Branch
Detroit Lions defensive back Brian Branch / Junfu Han / USA TODAY NETWORK
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The Detroit Lions are discovering Brian Branch's versatility gives Aaron Glenn's defense the flexbility of bringing pressure from multiple different spots.

Ifeatu Melifonwu, Kerby Joseph and Branch each have the ability to secure takeaways and pressure the quarterback from a variety of packages.

“I can play more freely in a way,” Branch told Sports Illustrated after practice Monday. “(Defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn) can keep sending me on blitzes because we have the guys to lock down the receivers behind me. That’s a win-win right there.”

In his rookie campaign, the former second-round pick finished with 50 solo tackles to go along with 13 passes defensed and seven tackles for loss.

Offseason surgery limited his regimen, but the former Alabama Crimson Tide defensive back is making strides in practice every day since his return.

On Monday, Branch impressed many with his compete level and ability to swipe the football.

New additions to secondary

The stinging loss to the 49ers will resonate with the organization. As a result of the secondary's struggles last year, the front office set out to revamp the secondary.

Veterans Carlton Davis and Amik Robertson were added to work with rookies Terrion Arnold and Ennis Rakestraw.

“They don’t care who they go against, they’re some dogs. That’s something coach Campbell and them, (with who) they bring in," Branch explained. “Having Carlton as a vet for those guys will set them up even in the long run, just teaching them tools and stuff they can put in their bag for the years to come.”

Additional reading

1.) Media, Fans Debate Lions Injury Reporting Policies

2.) Barry Sanders: Lions Must Understand They're a Target

3.) Dave Fipp: 'Super Talented' Jake Bates Has Bright Future

4.) Observations: Injuries Pile Up, Branch, Hutchinson Shine

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John Maakaron
JOHN MAAKARON

John Maakaron has covered Detroit Sports since 2013. Brings a vast array of experience covering the Detroit Tigers, Detroit Lions, Michigan Wolverines, Michigan State Spartans, Detroit Mercy Titans, and Oakland University Golden Grizzlies. John brings a wealth of sports broadcast experience. In 2013, John had the vision to establish the Detroit Sports Podcast Network. Has recorded over 3000 podcasts analyzing Detroit Sports. In 2019, Sports Illustrated Media Group, a historical sports media outlet, partnered with Detroit Sports Podcast to provide daily Lions content for their growing and expanding digital media outlet. Our Lions content can also be read in the newspaper at The Oakland  Passionate about Detroit Sports and it is reflected in his coverage of the local teams!

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