NFL Rules Against Brian Branch: Lions Safety Suspended for Incident with JuJu Smith-Schuster
Detroit Lions safety Brian Branch has received a one-game suspension after the NFL denied his appeal regarding an incident involving Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster. The suspension stems from Branch slapping Smith-Schuster following their matchup on Sunday Night Football. As a result, the Lions will be without the former second-round draft pick for an upcoming game.
Dan Campbell Addresses Branch’s Situation
Lions head coach Dan Campbell spoke candidly about the situation, emphasizing Branch’s character while acknowledging the mistake made in the heat of the moment. “He knows. He knows that; we’ve talked about it,” Campbell noted. He had met with Branch prior to the ruling and asserted that the young safety understands the implications of his actions. “He knows he can’t react that way, and he’ll be better for this. He’ll learn from it.”
Campbell maintained that the incident was a learning opportunity for Branch. He drew a parallel to real-life scenarios where individuals might let their emotions get the better of them, stressing the importance of self-control. “Our guys know that. Look, this is one instance of something that happened, and it doesn’t matter what led to it. We all know it’s no different than you driving down the road and something happens on the highway, right? You can’t take out your aggression on someone else. Can’t cross that line,” he said.
Navigating the Absence of Branch
When questioned about the appeal process, Campbell expressed doubt about its outcome, stating, “My job is to move forward here. I know this, we don’t have him. We don’t have him.” With Branch suspended, the focus shifts to how the team will adapt without his presence. Campbell mentioned the depth available to the Lions, highlighting players like Kerby Joseph, Thomas Harper, and Rock Ya-Sin, who can step up in Branch’s absence. “We can play one safety and play four linebackers for all I care. I mean, we’ll figure it out,” Campbell said.
After Campbell’s remarks, the Lions made the decision to waive Strickland, indicating a strategic adjustment in their roster. Harper is expected to take on a significant role in the upcoming game, while Joseph’s status remains uncertain as the team monitors his health throughout the week leading up to their next matchup.
The Lions are preparing to face the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and Campbell is committed to ensuring the team is ready to compete despite the challenges posed by Branch’s suspension.
