Lions defensive assistant Jim O’Neil believes that Lions cornerback Brian Branch has potential to increase his playing time in the upcoming season. He suggests that Branch, who started nine out of the 15 games he played last year and was on the field for about 75% of the team’s defensive snaps, could possibly be on the field for close to 100% of snaps if he remains healthy and continues to perform well.
O’Neil sees Branch as a valuable asset to the team and believes that with his second year experience and improved skills, the coaching staff is challenging him to showcase his capabilities during training camp. The team aims to have him on the field for all three downs this season, and they believe that with his growth and versatility, Branch can secure a permanent spot in the starting lineup.
Last year, Branch rotated positions a bit, but this season the team expects him to make significant progress in his role as a nickel cornerback. With a promising young core of players, the Lions see Branch as a key player in their future success as a franchise.
