As reported by NFL Network, Detroit Lions safety Brian Branch plans to formally contest his one-game suspension that followed a postgame incident with Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster.
The NFL issued the ruling on Monday, suspending Branch without pay for one game after reviewing footage of the altercation, which happened just moments after Detroit’s 30–17 loss on Sunday Night Football.
Branch’s Version of Events
Branch admitted that he lost his cool in the heat of the moment.
“I did something a little childish,” Branch said. “I’m tired of players getting away with stuff between plays and officials missing it… I shouldn’t have done that. It was childish.”
The confrontation reportedly began after an illegal block in the back that Branch claimed was ignored earlier in the game. Upset over what he viewed as inconsistent officiating, Branch approached Smith-Schuster near midfield after the game, sparking a brief scuffle that was caught on national television.
Next Steps for Branch and the Lions
If Branch’s appeal is unsuccessful, he will be forced to sit out next Monday’s game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and can rejoin the active roster the following day. His absence would be a setback for Detroit’s secondary, which is already managing injuries to Kerby Joseph, Terrion Arnold, and D.J. Reed.
Branch, who is earning $1,379,250 this season, stands to lose $76,625 in salary if the suspension is upheld.
The Lions, currently 4–2, are preparing for an important Monday Night Football matchup with Tampa Bay, a game that could play a crucial role in shaping the NFC playoff picture.
