Early in the offseason, the Detroit Lions considered moving Brian Branch to safety. As a rookie last season, Branch primarily played slot corner, a role he thrived in, despite initially being expected to fill a more versatile position. With offseason additions to the cornerback lineup, the Lions had the chance to fully shift Branch to safety, where he could leverage his skills even further.
Through Week 10, Branch has lined up across multiple spots, but he’s spent 43 percent of his snaps at free safety. His production speaks volumes: 50 total tackles, four interceptions (up from three last season), and he’s already matched his 13 pass breakups from last year. His impact has been so profound that Pro Football Focus (PFF) named him the highest-graded safety through Week 10, with top-three grades in every major area—coverage, run defense, and pass rush.
Branch’s move to safety was a key factor in transforming Detroit’s defense. The Lions’ improved cornerback play made it possible for him to make a more profound impact from the safety position. PFF even recognized the Lions’ safeties as the most improved group in the league, highlighting the NFC North’s “safety renaissance” with the Lions standing out in particular.
Both Branch and his safety partner, Kerby Joseph, have excelled this season. Joseph, currently PFF’s second-highest graded safety, leads the league with six interceptions and boasts the top PFF coverage grade among safeties. His progress has been remarkable—he’s improved from a 56.5 overall grade last season to one of the best in the NFL, demonstrating his growth and skill development.
With Branch and Joseph together, Detroit has forged one of the league’s premier safety tandems. Branch’s presence has clearly elevated Joseph’s play, cementing the Lions’ secondary as a defensive powerhouse. This partnership underscores that moving Branch to safety was not just a smart decision—it’s been a game-changer.