Introduction
Brian Branch has quickly emerged as one of the most intriguing defensive talents in the Detroit Lions — not just for his on-field performance but also for a quirky visual trademark: a bright green mouthguard wedged into the top of his helmet. In this article, we’ll explore Branch’s career and performance, give you the latest on his injury status, and reveal the story behind that green helmet accessory.
Who Is Brian Branch?
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Born on October 22, 2001, Branch played high school football at Sandy Creek High School in Fayetteville, Georgia.
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He accepted a scholarship to Alabama Crimson Tide, where he played from 2020 to 2022. Over his college career, he became known for his versatility — back-pedaling in the deep secondary, covering slot receivers, and contributing to run defense.
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Recognized as one of the top safety prospects in the 2023 NFL Draft, Branch was selected by the Detroit Lions in the second round (45th overall) — the first safety taken that year.
Since joining the Lions, Branch has become a foundational piece of their secondary, blending speed, physicality, and instincts to make plays — both in coverage and run support.
Career Stats & Performance (Through 2025 season Week 8)
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| Total tackles | 216 |
| Sacks | 3.0 |
| Forced fumbles | 3 |
| Pass deflections |
34 |
| Interceptions | 7 |
| Defensive touchdowns | 1 |
Career Highlights
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NFL Debut (2023): In his first professional game (Week 1, 2023), Branch recorded an interception returned for a 50-yard touchdown — his first NFL pick and touchdown in the same debut. That made him the first Detroit Lions player to accomplish that in an NFL debut since 1967.
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2024 Season: Branched into a full-time starting role and earned his first Pro Bowl selection. He finished the season with 109 combined tackles, 16 pass deflections, 4 interceptions, and a sack across 16 games.
These numbers underscore his two-way ability — aggressive in run defense while still providing reliable coverage and playmaking ability in the secondary.
Injury Update (as of December 2025)
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As of early December 2025, reports indicate that Branch suffered an injury in the fourth quarter of Week 14 against the Dallas Cowboys while attempting to intercept a tipped pass in the end zone. The injury reportedly involved his ankle/feet area.
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At this point, it’s unclear how much time he might miss or whether he’ll require further evaluation or rest. The team and medical staff have been monitoring his status and are expected to provide updates as available.
This coming stretch of games could be critical — not only for Branch’s career but for Detroit’s defensive stability, especially given his prominent role in the secondary.
Why Does Brian Branch Have a Green Helmet Accessory? (Green Mouthguard)
One of the most talked-about features when it comes to Branch is the bright green mouthguard that he often wedges into the top vent of his helmet. Here’s the full story behind it:
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The “green thing” on Branch’s helmet is, in fact, his mouthguard. Instead of keeping it in his mouth between plays, Branch places it atop his helmet.
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As Branch himself explained, the main reason is practicality: “I put it up there … because I can’t really breathe with it in,” especially if the defense is on the field for a long time. He said he has done this since college.
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For Branch, the green mouthguard isn’t just about convenience — it’s become a kind of personal trademark. In interviews, he acknowledged that he expected the distinctive look to become part of his identity on the field: “I guess that’s probably gonna be my little trademark,” he said.
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The color choice (lime-green) remains a personal preference; Branch hasn’t publicly disclosed any deeper meaning behind it, stating simply that it’s what he’s worn since college.
So what might appear as a strange fashion statement is, for Branch, a blend of comfort, habit, and personal branding — a distinctive signature that sets him apart on the field.
Why Brian Branch Matters for the Lions
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Versatility and Youth: At just 24 years old (born 2001), Branch combines youth with notable versatility. Whether in deep coverage, slot coverage, or run support, he offers a complete skill set.
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Playmaking Upside: His 7 career interceptions and ability to create turnovers make him a weapon. His debut pick-six set the tone early.
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Durability (Mostly): Despite minor injuries, he has started and played in most games since being drafted, making him a dependable presence in Detroit’s secondary.
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Intangibles and Identity: The green mouthguard — while superficial — adds personality. It symbolizes his confidence and comfort in his own skin, and for fans, it makes him instantly recognizable on the field.
Potential Concerns & What to Watch
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The recent ankle/foot injury (Week 14, 2025) could sideline him for a few games or hamper his effectiveness depending on recovery.
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With key games ahead for the Lions, his availability will be crucial for the team’s defensive performance.
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As opponents film and study his tendencies, Branch will need to continue evolving — becoming less predictable in his playmaking and defensive reads.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What exactly is the “green thing” on Brian Branch’s helmet?
A: It’s his mouthguard. Instead of using it between plays, Branch wedges it in the top vent of his helmet for comfort and better breathing.
Q: Is the green mouthguard just for style? Or does it have a deeper meaning?
A: As per Branch’s own words, the color and placement are more about practicality and personal preference than any known symbolic meaning. He’s worn that green mouthguard since college and considers it a part of his on-field identity.
Q: How has Brian Branch been performing statistically?
A: Through Week 8 of the 2025 season, Branch has accumulated 216 total tackles, 3 sacks, 3 forced fumbles, 34 pass deflections, and 7 interceptions since joining the NFL in 2023.
Q: What is his latest injury status?
A: Branch reportedly suffered an ankle/foot-related injury in the fourth quarter of the Week 14 2025 game vs the Dallas Cowboys. As of now, the extent and recovery timeline have not been publicly disclosed.
Q: Why should Detroit Lions fans care about Branch?
A: Branch brings youth, athleticism, versatility, and playmaking ability. He’s one of the young core defensive players around whom the Lions can build a strong secondary for years — and his unique helmet look only adds to his growing identity among fans.
Conclusion
Brian Branch is more than just another safety on the roster — he’s a rising star with the potential to shape the future of the Detroit Lions’ defense. With impressive stats, a knack for creating turnovers, and a unique personal trademark (the green mouthguard), Branch stands out for both performance and personality. As the 2025 season unfolds, all eyes will be on his recovery from injury and how he continues to evolve his game.
