Detroit Lions star C.J. Gardner-Johnson on rookie Brian Branch: ‘He’s over-exceeded expectations’

Brian Branch has yet to play a regular season game in the NFL but he’s already turning heads with the Detroit Lions.

The former Crimson Tide safety has earned the respect of the league’s co-leader in interceptions from last season. Lions safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson is highly impressed with what he’s seen so far from the rookie in training camp.

“Star. Stud. … He’s over-exceeded expectations.”

C.J. Gardner-Johnson assesses the early play of #Lions rookie Brian Branch: pic.twitter.com/FbfAL4Dnxl

— Nolan Bianchi (@nolanbianchi) August 16, 2023

“Stud, star. That’s what you want from any rookie that you expect a lot of you. He’s over-exceeded expectations,” Gardner-Johnson said. “The ceiling is the sky. I just want to see him continue to get better day by day and fight through camp. That’s what it’s about right now.”

INTERVIEW: Brian Branch waited until the second round to hear his name called at the NFL Draft. He isn’t waiting to make an impact in Lions training camp.

CJ Gardner-Johnson called him a “star,” and Dan Campbell said the Alabama rookie is “taking off.” pic.twitter.com/ymJoDKWewf

— Brad Galli (@BradGalli) August 16, 2023

When Gardner-Johnson’s assessment was relayed to him, Branch glowed about the budding relationship between the safeties.

“It means a lot coming from a guy like CJ. He’s a great safety. One of the best in the nation,” Branch said. “For him to mentor me as a rookie I feel like he’s going to help me out in the long run.”

The Lions selected Branch with the No. 145 pick in the second round of the draft. While at Alabama, Branch captured a national title and was an All-American.

Branch is in bliss about being an NFL player and is looking forward to making the most of his rookie season.

“It actually feels unreal. I’m not going to lie,” Branch said. “Every day just coming out here and doing these joint practices, I ain’t never did it. Just a dream come true.”

Rolando Rosa