Although Brian Branch is a clear starter, the Detroit Lions might have another option for their secondary.
Brian Branch was selected in the second round of the draft by the Detroit Lions last offseason as the final piece of their secondary rebuild. Branch lived up to expectations, making an impact play in Week 1 and providing a nickel corner role for the entire season (74 total tackles, seven tackles for loss, and a team-high 13 pass breakups).
Security After taking the field for the first time in Week 14 of the previous season, Ifeatu Melifonwu finished with five sacks in the postseason. Pro Football Focus consistently ranked him among the Lions’ best defenders, and in Week 16, he was named NFC Defensive Player of the Week. After a notable period of time without injury, the Lions’ first draft selection from the Matthew Stafford deal performed admirably.
The Lions have a serious need at cornerback, more especially outside cornerback, as free agency and the draft draw near. However, Branch is an approved component of the secondary
Indeed, Melifonwu’s health is the main concern going forward. He participated in all 17 games of the previous campaign, but a hand injury kept him confined to special teams for a considerable amount of time until he replaced Tracy Walker in the starting lineup. But during the most crucial period of the season, he demonstrated that he was a formidable blitzer and a competent coverage player.
When the Lions try to assemble their secondary again this offseason, Branch is a solid place to start. Additionally, Kerby Joseph at one safe place cannot be overlooked.
However, Melifonwu entered the picture late in the previous season to demonstrate his staying power. He’ll have an opportunity to firmly establish himself as a key component of the Detroit secondary next season.
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