Colts’ Zaire Franklin Comments on Lions’ Brian Branch
Indianapolis Colts linebacker Zaire Franklin recently praised Detroit Lions safety Brian Branch for stepping in during a tense exchange with Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster. Franklin noted that Branch was doing “the Lord’s work” in that situation.
This moment occurred after the Chiefs defeated the Lions 30-17, and Franklin seemed to resonate with Branch’s choice to assert himself. “JuJu needed his voice,” he stated during a discussion on the “Club 520 Podcast.”
Franklin didn’t hold back when discussing Smith-Schuster’s behavior, labeling it as “a——.” He elaborated on the type of player Smith-Schuster is, someone who tends to employ sneaky tactics on the field. He illustrated this point by sharing a photo of Smith-Schuster with a bloody nose that circulated after the game. Franklin mockingly commented, “Brother, don’t cry through your nose. You have a child; come on.” He reflected on how his own children would perceive such an encounter.
Lions’ Reaction to Incident
While Franklin may have enjoyed the drama, the Lions organization did not. Branch has been suspended for one game due to his actions, and his appeal was unsuccessful. This means he will miss an upcoming game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Lions head coach Dan Campbell condemned Branch’s actions, emphasizing that such behavior is unacceptable within the team culture. “What he did was inexcusable,” Campbell said, adding that he had apologized to the Chiefs and Smith-Schuster.
Following the incident, Branch self-criticized his role, calling it “childish.” He explained that he felt provoked by repeated offenses that seemed to go unnoticed by referees but acknowledged he shouldn’t have responded the way he did.
The altercation occurred when Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes attempted to greet Branch, who appeared to ignore him. This led to Smith-Schuster intervening, culminating in Branch hitting him on the helmet. The situation escalated as players worked to separate them, and Branch ultimately removed Smith-Schuster’s helmet.
This isn’t the first time unsportsmanlike conduct has been an issue for Branch. Earlier this season, he faced fines for similar penalties, including a $23,186 fine for face masks during a game against the Green Bay Packers.
