The Detroit Lions just absorbed the kind of December blow that can derail a contender. Brian Branch — the heartbeat of Detroit’s secondary and one of the most dynamic young defenders in the league — is officially done for the rest of the 2025 season with a torn Achilles. Losing a player of his caliber is brutal, and with four games remaining in a tight playoff race, the Lions can’t afford to stand pat.
The best answer on the market? Justin Simmons.
Simmons isn’t just another veteran safety floating in free agency. He’s a two-time Pro Bowler, an All-Pro, and one of the most reliable defensive backs of the past decade. Over nine years he’s compiled elite production, demonstrating outstanding range, instincts, and consistency. Even last year in Atlanta, at age 31, Simmons delivered 62 tackles and seven pass breakups while learning a new system — proof he still plays at a high level.
Why Detroit Needs Simmons Right Now
Let’s be clear: no one truly replaces Brian Branch. His versatility, toughness, and feel for the game are rare.
But the Lions cannot head into the final stretch with an inexperienced secondary and expect playoff-caliber results. They need a seasoned defensive leader who can settle the back end, communicate effectively, and maintain the disguise-heavy approach Kelvin Sheppard wants to run.
Simmons provides all of that from day one.
Why Simmons Would Choose the Lions
There are several reasons this match makes perfect sense:
1. Detroit gives him the playoff shot he’s never had.
Simmons hasn’t been part of a legitimate Super Bowl push in his career. The Lions are firmly in the hunt.
2. He’d step into a meaningful, high-impact role.
With Branch sidelined, Simmons can plug in as a starting free safety or slot/hybrid defender — the same roles he excelled in with the Broncos.
3. He’s ready to play immediately.
Although he hasn’t been on a roster this season, he’s stayed in football shape and has taken visits. He’s not coming in cold.
4. The scheme fits him perfectly.
Sheppard values intelligent, aggressive safeties who can diagnose plays, disguise intentions, and lead the secondary. That’s exactly Simmons’ wheelhouse.
A Move That Could Steady Detroit’s Season
Branch’s absence is a major setback. There’s no sugarcoating that.
But the Lions’ championship window is open right now, and GM Brad Holmes has never hesitated to make bold moves when they’re needed most.
Justin Simmons is one of the rare free agents who could walk through the door, learn the defense quickly, and contribute at a high level almost immediately.
If Detroit wants to keep its playoff push alive and avoid a defensive regression, the answer is simple:
Pick up the phone. Sign Justin Simmons. Keep the season on track.
