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Two Detroit Lions 2023 Draft Picks Remain Unsigned

Detroit Lions have signed six of their eight 2023 NFL draft picks.

John Maakaron

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The Detroit Lions have two players who have yet to sign their first NFL contract. 

After tight end Sam LaPorta signed his four-year rookie contract, running back Jahmyr Gibbs and defensive back Brian Branch remain as the lone two Lions draft picks that have yet to sign their rookie contracts.

Both are former members of the Crimson Tide, and are expected to contribute during their rookie campaigns in the NFL. 

Gibbs is a player that will see the field quite soon, as the speedy running back has explosiveness and the capability of forcing opposing tacklers to miss. 

Branch, meanwhile, will have more difficulty seeing the field early in his career. The depth chart in the secondary is stacked with veterans who are expected to play at a high level. 

While Branch could see his role be on special teams early in his career, he has showcased versatility.

Detroit defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn has elevated expectations for the 21-year-old, as he has the capability to excel at multiple different positions in the secondary. 

"Thankfully, Alabama prepared me. I got a little advantage," Branch said during offseason workouts. "Just studying the playbook every day. That's how you learn it."

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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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