The backlash surrounding the Brian Branch–NFL Films controversy deepened Friday when Louis Riddick finally spoke out. The veteran ESPN analyst and voice of NFL Turning Point released a public statement about the now-deleted video that appeared to criticize the Detroit Lions safety. Yet despite addressing the issue, Riddick notably stopped short of directly apologizing to Branch or the organization.

In his remarks, Riddick stressed his strong admiration for the Lions, insisting there was “never any intention to produce a hit piece.”

“The Detroit Lions organization is one I have nothing but the utmost respect for,” Riddick stated. “Ownership, Head Coach, General Manager, and players alike. As for this week’s ‘Turning Point’ episode I narrated covering the Chiefs/Lions game — it didn’t come across the way it should have.”

He went on to explain that the show’s purpose is to depict every aspect of a matchup, “the good and the bad,” adding that the promotional snippet online was misleading when removed from full context.

“The goal is to collectively, as a team, capture the story of a game — both positive and negative moments. There is NEVER an effort to do a ‘hit piece’ on anyone or any team. That said, I understand how the brief clip shared online could seem like it was designed to portray the #Lions or Brian Branch in an intentionally harsh light. I want no part of that. I’ll make sure anything bearing my name won’t ever leave space for that kind of interpretation again.”

Though Riddick’s comments help clarify his intent, it’s significant that his message doesn’t contain a clear apology to Branch, Dan Campbell, or the Lions’ leadership.

Carefully Worded, But Not Contrite

Riddick’s response follows NFL Films’ decision to remove the clip and issue a statement on Thursday admitting the short segment “appeared overly critical” of Branch and the Lions when viewed separately from the full nine-minute episode.

Still, the harm had already been done. The narration voiced by Riddick painted Branch’s performance and emotional reaction in a tone many fans and players felt was disrespectful — even mocking.

Now, Riddick’s clarification reads as a way to separate himself from the controversy without fully accepting responsibility for its consequences.

Louis Riddick insists there was no plan to unfairly portray Brian Branch or the Detroit Lions — but intent isn’t the problem, impact is. The clip was released, fans felt disrespected, and the backlash had already spread.

And while Riddick’s statement was polished, respectful, and professional, it still lacked the one phrase Lions fans wanted most to hear: “I’m sorry.”