Lions' Branch ejected after helmet-to-helmet hit on Packers' Melton

Detroit Lions defensive back Brian Branch was ejected from Sunday's 24-14 win over the Green Bay Packers in the second quarter.

Branch was disqualified after a hard helmet-to-helmet hit on Packers wide receiver Bo Melton.

Lions DB Brian Branch has been ejected from the game after a helmet-to-helmet hit. pic.twitter.com/wgX5m9AOGr
— FOX Sports: NFL (@NFLonFOX) November 3, 2024

"That came from New York," Fox play-by-play announcer Kevin Burkhardt said on the live broadcast of the officials' decision to disqualify Branch.

NFL senior vice president of officiating Perry Fewell explained Branch's ejection postgame.

"We reviewed all the angles, and we clearly felt that he had time and space to make a different choice, as the act was a flagrant foul," Fewell said, according to NFL Network's Tom Pelissero.

Branch gave two middle fingers as he headed off the field, resulting in referees flagging the second-year defender again for 15 yards, according to The Athletic's Matt Schneidman.

The 23-year-old is a key member of Detroit's defense, leading the team with 11 pass breakups. Branch - selected by the Lions in the second round last year - has also recorded 38 tackles and four interceptions in 2024.

With Branch out of the game, Lions safety Kerby Joseph stepped up, recording a 27-yard pick-6 off Jordan Love to help Detroit build a 17-3 lead at halftime.