Detroit Lions’ Brian Branch talks suspension, spiritual milestone, team leadership ahead of playoff push

ALLEN PARK, Mich. – Detroit Lions safety Brian Branch described the difficulty of missing the Monday Night Football game due to suspension, but expressed relief and motivation upon returning to the field.

“It was very difficult just being out there with my guys, my brothers. I wasn’t able to help contribute to a win, but I’m glad we got the W,” said Branch.

Branch admitted he couldn’t bring himself to watch the game while sidelined, saying, “Watching them would make me miss being out there. That’s something that’s hard. I would be eager to get out there.”

He praised his teammates for wearing his jersey during his absence.

“I love them. They notice where I stand with them. I die out there for those boys. I play as hard as I can to help us. I scratch and claw. I’ll go to war with them pretty much,” Branch said.

Reflecting on his suspension, Branch took responsibility and expressed regret.

“I want to apologize for that. That’s something I don’t condone, and it’ll never happen again. It definitely added another chip to my shoulder,” Branch said.

When asked about balancing his fiery nature on the field, Branch said, “I get caught playing with too much emotion, and that brought me to that. I still play with fire, but just between the whistle. Now we’re going on the playoff run, so none of that.”

Branch shared how he’s learning to control his emotions, with guidance from coaches.

“They try to pick at me during plays to get me out of my shell, but they tell me to still play with fire and just not retaliate. Play between the whistle,” Branch said.

Branch also revealed he talks to a counselor, humorously mentioning, “I talked to where I take my dog for boarding. His name is Mr. Preacher, and he’s helped me a long way.”

He announced a personal milestone: “I actually get baptized this Wednesday.”

Branch appreciated the coaching staff’s public support during his suspension.

“It means a lot. I feel like I shot our team in the foot with what I did, and for them to have my back, I love them for that. I go to war for them any day of the week,” Branch said.

Looking ahead to his return, Branch promised fans “relentless effort and aggression.”

Branch also praised teammates who stepped up in his absence, saying, “The whole secondary played better than we played all year. I was too eager to get back out.”

On his baptism, Branch shared, “I feel like I got a new relief. I feel like I need to be saved by God. I’ve been going through a time like that. It’s a new relief.”

Branch clarified that the baptism was not prompted by the suspension but was perfect timing.

He said the baptism will be performed by “Mr. Preacher,” the preacher at the place where he boards his dog, and it is scheduled for Wednesday.