Detroit Lions safety Brian Branch has learned the fines he’ll be facing for his actions during the Green Bay Packers game. He’s been fined a total of $20,256, $10,128 for each hit that got him ejected, along with the same amount for his obscene gesture towards fans.
In the game at Lambeau Field, Branch recorded just one tackle, but the Lions secured a 24-14 victory in an important NFC North matchup. After the fines were announced, fans took to social media to share their thoughts.
One fan remarked, “That actually isn’t as bad as I thought. Still shouldn’t have been ejected,” while another expressed that “the league is soft,” defending Branch’s actions.
This is the first fine Branch has received this season, but he won’t be suspended and is set to play in the upcoming Sunday Night Football game against the Houston Texans. Many believe this matchup could be a preview of Super Bowl LIX. The Lions will need to prepare for a strong Texans team, especially with star wide receiver Nico Collins returning from injury, making it the first time Branch will face him in a live game.
Did Brian Branch apologize after the Lions-Packers game?
People were curious if Branch felt bad about his actions. The standout safety ended up apologizing for giving the Packers fans the middle finger.
“That’s not how I want to be seen,” Branch said, according to ESPN on Tuesday. “It was just a heat-of-the-moment thing, and I’m really sorry to anyone who saw that. It won’t happen again.”
While Branch expressed regret for that incident, many wondered if he also apologized for his helmet-to-helmet hit on Melton.
“I definitely agree with the call,” Branch acknowledged. “I know my target was too high, but I never intended to hit him in the head. From now on, I need to make sure I keep my target lower.”
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