Lions' Brian Branch Ejected for Helmet-to-Helmet Hit on Packers' Bo Melton
Detroit Lions' safety Brian Branch was ejected from Saturday's preseason game against the Green Bay Packers after delivering a helmet-to-helmet hit on Packers rookie receiver Bo Melton.
Branch Ejected, Melton Injured
The incident occurred in the second quarter of the game. Melton had just caught a pass over the middle when Branch came in low and made contact with his helmet. Melton was slow to get up and was eventually helped off the field.
Branch was immediately ejected from the game for a flagrant foul. He will likely face further discipline from the NFL, as helmet-to-helmet hits are one of the league's most penalized offenses.
Melton was diagnosed with a concussion and was taken to a local hospital for further evaluation. His status for the rest of the preseason is unknown.
Lions' Secondary Depth Tested
Branch's ejection leaves the Lions with a major hole in their secondary. Branch was expected to be a key contributor this season, especially with the departure of Tracy Walker in free agency.
The Lions will now have to rely on other players to step up in Branch's absence. Will Harris and Ifeatu Melifonwu are likely candidates to start alongside Amani Oruwariye, but both players have limited starting experience.
The Lions' secondary was already a concern before Branch's ejection. The team allowed the most passing yards in the NFL last season, and they have yet to add any significant pieces to their defensive backfield this offseason.
Branch's absence will only make it more difficult for the Lions to improve their pass defense in 2023.