Brian Branch really wants Detroit Lions to re-sign veteran DB

The Detroit Lions face an interesting decision about veteran defensive back C.J. Gardner-Johnson. The lively defense has shown to be a tremendous asset in the NFL, leading the league with six interceptions in 2022, but his 2023 season with the Lions was cut short by injuries. A ruptured pectoral muscle forced him to miss 14 games, and despite working tirelessly to recover just in time for their playoff push and playoffs games, he was only given a rotational role when he returned to the field.

However, Lions rookie cornerback Brian Branch wants Gardner-Johnson back. On Monday, Branch took to Twitter to comment to a post asking Lions supporters if they should re-sign Gardner-Johnson, who inked a one-year, $6.5 million contract with the team last year.

While Gardner-Johnson is a positionally diverse player with Pro Bowl potential, the Lions do not have a clear road to a starting spot at any of the spots he plays. With the ascent of Ifeatu Melifonwu and Kerby Joseph at safety and the emergence of Brian Branch in the slot, the Lions may want to maintain their indigenous players in key positions.

It’s unclear how much money Gardner-Johnson will seek in free agency. He bet on himself in 2023, signing a one-year contract, but injuries stopped him from distinguishing himself. Would he be open to signing another inexpensive contract in Detroit? Otherwise, it’s difficult to imagine him returning to what may be another rotating role in this defense—something he clearly wasn’t pleased with at the conclusion of the season.

However, if Branch, a player whose skill set is quite similar to Gardner-Johnson’s, wants him back, it might be beneficial to have a mentor in the locker room who can also play basketball.