The Detroit Lions have several important choices to make as the 2026 NFL Draft approaches, but their focus isn’t limited to the draft alone. The team is also evaluating different parts of its roster while trying to rebound from a disappointing 9–8 campaign. With Dan Campbell still leading the team and Drew Petzing stepping in as the new offensive coordinator, Detroit is entering a period of adjustment as it looks to improve for the upcoming season.
One player whose future with the team has started to draw attention is safety Brian Branch. The young defensive back is heading into the final season of his rookie contract, and there is already speculation about whether Detroit will keep him long-term. The Lions could even consider selecting a possible replacement in the upcoming draft.
Branch’s situation is complicated by health concerns. He is currently recovering from a torn Achilles tendon suffered during a game against the Dallas Cowboys. In addition, keeping him beyond his rookie deal could become expensive. Contract projections from Spotrac estimate his market value could reach around $20 million, which might force the team to weigh the financial impact of an extension.
During discussions by the Lions Collective about potential first-round targets, some analysts suggested prospects who might eventually fill Branch’s role. Colton Pouncy of The Athletic noted that the idea could spark mixed reactions among fans, saying it would likely create plenty of debate. Meanwhile, Justin Rogers from Detroit Football Network referenced Branch while discussing possible replacements, and Colby Colwell wrote in Detroit Jock City that the defender’s long-term outlook in Detroit could be uncertain.
Despite the speculation, Branch has been productive when healthy. According to grades from Pro Football Focus, he earned a 77.5 overall rating during the 2025 season, ranking 12th among 98 NFL safeties. Those numbers suggest he remains a highly capable player when he is available on the field.
If Detroit decides not to pursue a safety early in the draft, another widely discussed option is strengthening the offensive line. Draft analyst Mel Kiper Jr. of ESPN projects the Lions selecting offensive tackle Monroe Freeling from University of Georgia.
Kiper highlighted Freeling’s impressive size—standing 6-foot-7 and weighing 315 pounds—along with his long reach and ability to neutralize pass rushers using quick hands and mobility. While some teams might hesitate because he has only 18 career starts, Kiper believes Detroit could still see significant upside in the player.
He also pointed out that the Lions struggled in pass protection last season, finishing near the bottom of the league in pass block win rate at 55.5 percent. Because of that, Freeling could potentially step into the lineup quickly and even serve as a future replacement for veteran tackle Taylor Decker.
According to Kiper, strengthening the offensive line with a player like Freeling could help Detroit become more competitive again and improve its chances of returning to the playoffs.
