Detroit Lions’ Brian Branch Scores Big Pay Raise for 2026
Detroit Lions safety Brian Branch is cashing in on a stellar 2024 season. Thanks to the NFL’s proven performance escalator program, the former Alabama standout is set to more than triple his salary for the 2026 season—without even having to negotiate a new contract.
Branch, who just wrapped up his second year in the league, was a force on Detroit’s defense. He led the team with 79 solo tackles and held quarterbacks to a 73.7 passer rating when targeting his coverage. He also snagged four interceptions while allowing just three touchdowns, a performance good enough to earn his first Pro Bowl invitation.
Newly promoted defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard has high expectations for Branch, emphasizing that the young safety still has room to grow. “Brian Branch is only going into his third year,” Sheppard said. “I know we see this dynamic athlete, but there’s so much meat on the bone from the neck up with that player.”
The Pro Bowl nod activated a major pay bump under the NFL’s performance-based incentive system, which rewards second-round and later draft picks who significantly outperform their rookie contracts. Under this program, Branch’s 2026 salary jumps from $1.744 million to at least $5.351 million—the estimated second-round restricted free agent tender for 2025. That number is expected to rise even higher by the time 2026 rolls around.
While this raise is locked in, Branch could command an even bigger payday if the Lions decide to offer him a contract extension next offseason. NFL rules allow drafted players to negotiate new deals after completing three seasons, meaning Detroit will have the option to extend their young star in 2026 rather than waiting for his rookie contract to expire.
For now, Branch’s future in Detroit looks bright. With his growing role in the defense and a well-earned financial boost, he’s primed to be a key piece of the Lions’ secondary for years to come.
