As the Detroit Lions gear up for the upcoming NFL season, general manager Brad Holmes has reiterated the team's intention to finalize contract extensions for key players Sam LaPorta and Brian Branch. This announcement came during his annual preseason press conference held on September 2 in Allen Park, where Holmes expressed confidence in retaining the talents of the 2023 draft class.
Holmes stated, "We still want to keep those other guys around. Those plans haven’t changed. There’s a couple factors that we still got to sort through, but in terms of us wanting those guys around, absolutely. Hopefully we can get that done." This commitment to LaPorta and Branch is significant as both players were second-round picks in the 2023 NFL Draft and have shown considerable potential.
However, the path to securing these contracts is complicated by injury concerns. Brian Branch, who tore his Achilles last December, is currently on the physically unable to perform list and is expected to miss at least the first four games of the regular season. Meanwhile, Sam LaPorta is recovering from back surgery, which has limited his participation in preseason activities.
Holmes acknowledged the challenges posed by these injuries, stating, "We still have confidence that [Branch and Joseph] can come back, you just can’t really give an exact timeline. But yeah, I mean, they’re both here, they’re rehabbing, they’re working hard, just can’t offer a timeline. But yeah, the hopes is to have both of them back at some point." LaPorta, despite missing some time due to a hip injury, is anticipated to be ready for the Lions' season opener against the New Orleans Saints on September 13.
Branch, 24, has already made a name for himself in the league, having been selected as a Pro Bowl safety in 2024. His career statistics include seven interceptions, 4½ sacks, and three forced fumbles, showcasing his impact on the field. He was drafted 45th overall from Alabama, and his performance when healthy has made him a valuable asset for the Lions.
On the other hand, LaPorta, 25, made headlines last season by setting a rookie tight end record with 86 receptions for 889 yards. However, his production dipped in the following year, where he recorded 40 catches for 489 yards. LaPorta was selected 34th overall from Iowa, and the Lions are keen to see him return to his previous form.
The market for safeties has seen significant increases recently, with players like Derwin James and Kyle Hamilton securing extensions that average around $25 million per season. Kerby Joseph, another safety for the Lions, briefly held the title of the NFL’s highest-paid safety with his $21.25 million per year contract signed in April 2025. Similarly, tight ends have also seen lucrative contracts, with George Kittle and Trey McBride both signing deals worth approximately $19 million last season.
Holmes also discussed the unique circumstances surrounding the recent contract extensions for running back Jahmyr Gibbs and Atlanta Falcons star Bijan Robinson. Both players were negotiating new deals simultaneously, with Robinson securing a three-year contract worth $66.75 million, making him the highest-paid running back in the NFL. Gibbs followed closely with a three-year, $67.5 million extension just days later.
As the Lions prepare for the season ahead, the focus remains on ensuring the health and performance of their key players while navigating the complexities of contract negotiations. With the regular season approaching, the organization is hopeful for the swift recovery of both LaPorta and Branch, as their contributions will be crucial for the Lions' ambitions in the 2026 NFL season.
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