Lions budding superstar named candidate for major award in 2024

The Detroit Lions continue to be one of the strongest teams in the NFL, as Dan Campbell's squad is 8-1 and has won seven consecutive games after a 1-1 start to the season. Detroit is coming off a gusty 26-23 comeback victory over the Houston Texans in Week 10 and will host the Jacksonville Jaguars in Week 11 at Ford Field.

Though Detroit's offense deserves a ton of credit for the team's success in 2024, Aaron Glenn's defense — especially the secondary — has been stout. The additions of cornerbacks Carlton Davis and Terrion Arnold have greatly improved the unit, but another major reason for the secondary's rise this season has been the ascension of second-year safety Brian Branch.

Branch had a solid rookie campaign but has taken the next step in 2024 and is playing at an All-Pro level. The former Alabama standout has snagged four interceptions and is allowing just a 34.5 passer rating when targeted. Branch is also one of PFF's highest-rated defensive backs, posting a 90.7 PFF grade in eight games. 

With the Lions establishing themselves as premier contenders and Branch playing at a high level, Pro Football Network's Adam Beasley lists the budding Detroit superstar as a Defensive Player of the Year candidate alongside Cincinnati Bengals edge rusher Trey Hendrickson and New York Giants defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence.

Beasley predicts Pittsburgh Steelers superstar edge rusher T.J. Watt will win his second Defensive Player of the Year award in 2024, though. 

Though Branch is still just 23 years old and hasn't even played a full two seasons, the young safety is one of the best defensive players in football. General manager Brad Holmes found a hidden gem in the second round of the 2023 NFL Draft and a foundational piece for the franchise's future.

With Branch's running mate in the backend, Kerby Joseph, also playing at a high level, Detroit arguably boasts the best safety duo in football.