Brian Branch opens up on being drafted by Detroit Lions in second round of 2023 NFL Draft
Brian Branch is finally off the board, selected by the Detroit Lions with the No. 45 overall selection in the 2023 NFL Draft.
Afterwards, he joined the ABC broadcast to elaborated on the emotions he’s feeling, stating that he’s supremely motivated to prove the Lions right, and the rest of the NFL wrong for passing on him.
“It means a lot,” added the freshly-minted NFL defensive back. “Man, I’m just ready to get going, show them (other teams) what they missed out on. I’m blessed.”
Branch started every game for Alabama in 2022 and posted impressive numbers. He racked up 90 tackles, 14.0 tackles for a loss, 3.0 sacks, two interceptions and nine pass breakups. For his performance, the 21-year-old defender earned first-team All American honors.
In 2020 and 2021, the 6-foot-0, 193-pound DB had 82 tackles, a sack and two interceptions.
ESPN’s best-available rankings heading into the draft had Branch as the No. 1 safety in the 2023 class.
Moreover, Branch told NFL Network that he’s excited to learn from the veterans in Detroit, and that he’ll bring a lot to the table for the Lions.
“Just you know, me being a dog,” Branch responded, asked what he can bring to the Lions. “I feel like, you know a lot teams missed out on it and I’m ready to get playing with the team. Chauncey Gardner-Johnson there and I’m ready to be there with him and learn a lot from him.”
While Branch was expected to go in Round 1, he had a long wait backstage, and opted to return for Day 2, unlike other prospects. The experience was important to the former Crimson Tide star, and the crowd cheered him on for biding his time.
“Just to enjoy the experience,” explained Branch. “This is a once in a lifetime opportunity. Just to be in front of the crowd like this means a lot to me.”
Brian Branch is a steal in the second round for the Detroit Lions, and they’re more than happy to have him in the second round.
What the NFL draft analysts are saying about Brian Branch
NFL.com’s Lance Zierlein provided some analysis on Branch’s game in his recent scout of the linebacker’s draft profile. His player comparison for the Alabama star is Minkah Fitzpatrick.
“Plug-and-play defensive back with every ingredient necessary to become a high-performing starter early in his career,” Zeirlein wrote. “Branch has primarily handled nickel coverage at Alabama but has the range and instincts for single-high or split safety looks.
“He’s quick, fast and strong with the ability to match up with shifty slots, bigger possession receivers and pass-catching tight ends. He’s urgent and has a mind for the game. He takes playmaking angles into the throwing lane but does have a tendency to play it a little safe from off-man coverage. There are areas where he can improve but no real weaknesses, which could make him one of the safest picks in the draft.”