The Detroit Lions have some big decisions to make this offseason in terms of who will get extensions. That pathway got easier after NFL Network's Tom Pelissero reported that the 2026 salary cap will be in the range of $301.2 million to $305.7 million for each club.
That gives them more wiggle room at the negotiation table, but the Lions would be wise to hold off on a Brian Branch extension in 2026.
Lions Should Hold Off a Brian Branch Extension in 2026
Since stepping foot in Detroit after the 2023 NFL draft, Branch has been a staple and weapon in the secondary for this team. Over 43 career games (37 starts), the former Alabama standout has compiled 258 total tackles, 20 TFLs, 14 QB hits, 38 pass deflections, and seven interceptions.
Branch has lined up all across the field, playing in the box, slot, and free safety. He's a true Swiss army knife, but the Lions saw him tear his Achilles in Week 14 against the Dallas Cowboys. Considering that the injury happened in December, it puts his status for the 2026 campaign in the air.
While he could still suit up for the Lions in 2026, he would be towards the second half of the season. Even if he returns, expectations should be tempered. This is a major injury, and he likely will not feel like himself until the 2027 campaign.
For a player who's used to sharp turns, breaks, and sudden movements, he will need time to get back to that level. These are some of the major reasons why the Lions would be better off waiting to give him an extension.
Running back Jahmyr Gibbs and linebacker Jack Campbell are also eligible for extensions this offseason and could be the first to get them. Gibbs is the workhorse in the backfield going forward, with Campbell being a leader and game wrecker on the second level.
Spotrac lists Gibbs' market value at $20.2 annual salary, projecting him to get a three-year, $60 million extension. Campbell is in a similar ballpark, as Spotrac projects him to earn $21.5 million per season, landing a four-year, $85 million extension.
Those numbers are give or take, but are likely to be in that price range. Meanwhile, Sam LaPorta is another player in this class who's eligible for an extension, but there's no telling what the Lions will do since he's coming off a back injury.
Detroit already gave Jared Goff, Aidan Hutchinson, Amon-Ra St. Brown, Jameson Williams, Penei Sewell, and Alim McNeill at least $24 AAV on their extensions. With more money expected to be shelled out in the next couple of months, the Lions would be wise to hold off on giving Branch a big deal this offseason.
They need to see how he feels and looks after this major injury before making a big decision like this. Kyle Hamilton is the highest paid safety, getting $25 million per year, with Kerby Joseph coming in second at $21.5 million. Branch will be looking to get something in this range and the Lions need to be 100% confident when offering that kind of extension.