Lions cornerback Brian Branch had an impressive rookie season, quickly establishing himself as a nickel cornerback. He played in nine out of 15 games and was on the field for about 75% of the team’s defensive snaps.
Despite his success last year, the Lions are looking for more from him this season. Defensive assistant Jim O’Neil believes that Branch has the potential to increase his playing time, possibly being on the field for close to 100% of snaps if he remains healthy and continues to perform well. O’Neil also sees Branch as a valuable asset to the team’s future success as a franchise.
As Branch enters his second year with the Lions, he is expected to play all three downs on the field. The coaching staff is challenging him to show his capabilities during training camp, as they look for him to secure a permanent spot in the starting lineup.
The team aims to have him rotate positions less frequently this year, instead focusing on utilizing his skills and talents more aggressively. They believe that with a promising young core of players, Branch is a crucial part of their future success as a franchise.
