Lions' Brian Branch on the cusp of greatness in way too early All-Pro predictions

The Detroit Lions might not be getting the best work from their cornerback room to begin the season, but they've witnessed one shining star in their secondary through the first four weeks of action: Brian Branch. The second year safety is off to a roaring start in 2025, and he's getting the recognition he deserves for that effort by PFF.

The football analytics site shared a way too early All-Pro list as we're hitting the quarter mark of the season, and writer Gordon McGuinness has Branch marked as the runner up to making the First Team at safety behind Antoine Winfield Jr. of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Branch has racked up one forced fumble, five passes defended, and 18 solo tackles on the year. There have been numerous interception opportunities for Branch, so it's just a matter of time until he records his first of the season with the way he's been flying around the field.

But, the fact that he's getting Second Team recognition this soon in the year shows his impact on the Lions' defense beyond their formidable defensive line, and signals that he could be in line for the first All-Pro honor of his young career.

Branch on the cusp of greatness with Lions in 2025

Branch currently ranks 11th out of all safeties on PFF in overall grade (79.9). He's second amongst that group in pass breakups with four total so far, and first amongst safeties in sacks recorded. When watching Branch on the field, you're immediately struck by his ability to find where the action is on the field and make that action pay for crossing his path.