The Detroit Lions open training camp with four players on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list.
Brian Branch, a University of Alabama alumnus, is one of the players.
The #Lions have placed DL DJ Reader, edge Marcus Davenport and DB Brian Branch on the PUP list to begin training camp.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) July 21, 2024
A former Crimson Tide defensive back, Branch was taken in the second round of the 2023 NFL Draft.
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He had a very successful rookie season in the Lions’ secondary, totaling 74 tackles, a sack, 13 pass breakups, three interceptions, a forced fumble, and a defensive touchdown. According to the Lions’ team website, Branch had cleanup work done on his ankle and missed offseason workouts. He should be good to go by some point in camp, especially with Detroit expecting a big year from him.
Branch, a native Georgian, became a first-team All-American in his final season at Alabama.
He collected 90 tackles, 14 tackles for loss, three sacks, seven pass breakups, two quarterback hurries, and two interceptions.
Branch helped the Crimson Tide to a College Football Playoff National Championship in 2020 and two Southeastern Conference Championships in 2020 and 2021.
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Stephen M. Smith is the senior writer for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @CoachingMSmith.
