Lions safety Brian Branch has been suspended without pay for one game for his actions late in Sunday’s loss to the Chiefs.
After quarterback Patrick Mahomes took a final knee, Branch went behind the line of scrimmage and hit Kansas City receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster in the facemask with an open hand, sparking a brawl between the two teams.
Head coach Dan Campbell apologized during his postgame press conference for Branch’s actions. Branch also apologized, calling his actions “childish.”
NFL Vice President of Football Operations Jon Runyan issued the suspension for unsportsmanlike conduct.
“Your aggressive, non-football act was completely uncalled for, posed a serious risk of injury, and clearly violated the standards of conduct and sportsmanship expected of NFL players,” Runyan wrote in a letter to Branch. “Your conduct has reflected poorly on the NFL and has no place in our game.”
Branch may appeal the suspension, which will be heard and decided by Derrick Brooks, Ramon Foster or Jordy Nelson.
Branch has already been fined for driving, as he had already received three fines during the 2025 season. He was fined seven times in 2024.
Pending appeal, Branch is eligible to return to the Lions roster on Tuesday, October 21, following Monday night’s game between Detroit and Tampa Bay in Week 7.
