After extending LB Jack Campbell to a new contract this past week, the Brian Branch trade rumors are roaming across the league, as the Detroit Lions will have to make a decision. According to the rumor, the Lions could look to move on from the young safety, who tore his Achilles tendon, ending his 2025 campaign. Now, the safety is entering the final year of his rookie contract, and it wouldn’t be surprising if they attempt to trade him. Unfortunately, he won’t be garnering much attention in the market, and it would be best to release him so he can sign anywhere he wants to revive his career.
Could he still earn a new deal? Most likely, but it would have to wait until he proves that he can stay healthy. Branch had a Pro Bowl season during 2024, hauling 109 combined tackles (79 solo), 16 pass deflections, four interceptions, and a sack in 16 games and 16 starts. Despite the team bringing back veteran Avonte Maddox on a one-year deal for depth, the Lions shouldn’t trade Branch unless they get a solid return.
Brian Branch Trade Rumors: Lions Cap Squeeze Sparks $8M Exit Talks
However, the Lions didn’t draft a safety this offseason, which means Branch is safe, for now. With him returning alongside Kerby Joseph, this season is considered a “make-or-break.” Detroit still needs to extend RB Jahmyr Gibbs and TE Sam LaPorta to new deals, and while the Lions haven’t talked about a new contract for Branch, he’s set for free agency in 2027.
Unless the Lions have another losing season led by QB Jared Goff, he isn’t going anywhere. Detroit wants to return to the postseason, but if they endure a campaign where that’s not possible before the trade deadline, expect these teams to emerge as suitors.
Possible Next Teams
Kansas City Chiefs
The secondary unit for the Chiefs took a massive hit this offseason, losing Bryan Cook, Trent McDuffie and Jaylen Watson. However, the team made a quick recovery. They signed veteran Alohi Gilman as the new starting safety while drafting Mansoor Delane to become the projected starter. While they’re still shuffling around the depth, the team may need a true high-stakes player like Branch to join them.
Again, it’s only if the Lions don’t reach the playoffs. If the Chiefs want to make a push for the Lions’ safety, they could, and he might be a perfect fit to pair with Gilman.
Baltimore Ravens
The Ravens don’t need another starting safety, but it’d be beneficial for this team’s cornerback room if they acquire one. Baltimore brought in Jaylinn Hawkins this offseason for depth while they still have star Kyle Hamilton in the huddle. Malaki Starks is still on the younger and would appreciate the presence of Branch in time for the playoffs. The Ravens could send Marlon Humphrey to Detroit as they need a rotational secondary man, and the same can be said about Baltimore.
Buffalo Bills
Meanwhile, another playoff team that Branch could join is the Buffalo Bills. The team signed Geno Stone, but he’s coming off one of his worst campaigns with the Bengals. While still having Damar Hamlin as depth, they need someone who could consistently contain the aerial attack. Branch is high-risk, too, but when faced with the postseason, he could be a good fit for the postseason.
