Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell addressed the recent ejection of defensive back Brian Branch, who was removed from the game following a controversial play. Branch’s dismissal stirred debate, with fans and analysts split over the severity of the penalty. Campbell offered insight on the incident, expressing his disappointment but also standing by Branch’s intent.
“Brian’s a fierce competitor, and he was playing hard,” Campbell said post-game. “He didn’t intend for anything malicious, but sometimes things happen fast on the field. We respect the officials’ decision, even though it’s tough to lose a key player like Brian during such a crucial game.”
Branch, known for his aggressive playing style, has been a standout in the Lions’ defense this season. His ejection underscored the NFL’s strict stance on certain plays, as the league continues to prioritize player safety. Campbell, however, defended Branch’s character and commitment, noting that he plays with passion and doesn’t cross the line intentionally.
As the Lions prepare for upcoming games, Campbell emphasized that he and his team would review the incident to ensure such situations are minimized, while also reinforcing Branch’s essential role in the Lions’ defense moving forward.
Brian Branch was ejected from the Detroit Lions’ 24-14 win over the Green Bay Packers on Sunday after a dangerous-looking helmet-to-helmet hit on Packers wide receiver Bo Melton.
Following the game, Lions head coach Dan Campbell was asked about the ejection, and it sounds as if the decision to throw Branch out came not from the on-field officials but from the officiating crew watching the game from the replay review center in New York.
The only explanation I got — those guys did a great job, (referee) Clete (Blakeman) and them, I got a lot of respect for what they do — they just said it came from (the league office in) New York. That’s all l’ve got on it,” Campbell said, according to Detroit News beat writer Nolan Bianchi. “That’s the first time l’ve ever been a part of something like that, since l’ve been a head coach, that somebody got ejected. So I didn’t see it. I don’t know.”
It’s obviously too early to tell if Branch will face further punishment from the league following his ejection — for either the hit or his obscene gesture toward the Packers sideline while leaving the field.
