The Detroit Lions just absorbed the kind of December blow no playoff contender wants to face. Star defensive back Brian Branch has been ruled out for the rest of the 2025 season with a torn Achilles — a devastating loss for a secondary already thin on experience.

With four games left and the NFC playoff picture tightening, Detroit cannot afford to stand still. The Lions need immediate help.

And there is one free agent who fits perfectly:

Justin Simmons

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Why Justin Simmons Is the Ideal Replacement for Brian Branch

Veteran safety Justin Simmons isn’t just another name on the market — he’s one of the most decorated and consistent defensive backs of the last decade. His career résumé speaks for itself:

32 interceptions

71 passes defended

666 tackles

5 forced fumbles

124 career starts

Two-time Pro Bowler

All-Pro selection

Career AV of 70

Despite being in his early 30s, Simmons remains one of the smartest, most instinctive safeties in the NFL. Last season with the Falcons, he posted 62 tackles and 7 pass breakups, proving he still performs at a high level even in a new defensive system.

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Why the Detroit Lions Need Simmons Right Now

Brian Branch is a unique, do-it-all defender. He can’t be truly “replaced.”
But the Lions cannot move forward with an inexperienced secondary and expect to secure a playoff berth.

Signing Simmons would:

Stabilize the back end immediately

Improve communication across the secondary

Allow Kelvin Sheppard to keep disguising coverages

Add leadership and veteran awareness

Provide a plug-and-play defender with high football IQ

Simmons checks every box Detroit needs in December.

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Why Justin Simmons Would Sign With Detroit

A move to Detroit makes sense for Simmons as well. Here’s why:

1. The Lions are legitimate Super Bowl contenders

Simmons has rarely played for a true contender. Detroit offers a real championship opportunity.

2. He would have a clear, high-impact role

With Branch out, Simmons could start immediately at free safety or rotate into the slot — roles he played at elite levels in Denver.

3. He’s ready to play

Simmons has stayed in game shape and has already taken multiple free-agent visits. He could contribute fast.

4. Detroit’s scheme fits his strengths

Aggressive, smart, disguise-heavy coverages are exactly where Simmons thrives.

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This Signing Could Save the Lions’ Season

Losing Brian Branch is a massive setback — no question about it. But the Detroit Lions’ Super Bowl window is open right now, and GM Brad Holmes has never shied away from decisive, win-now moves.

Justin Simmons is the rare veteran who can walk into the building, learn the playbook quickly, and make an immediate impact.

If Detroit wants to stabilize the secondary and keep its playoff push on track, the solution is obvious:

Call Justin Simmons. Sign him now. Suit him up.

The Lions’ postseason hopes may depend on it.