Lions Coach Dan Campbell Criticizes Brian Branch's Action

Dan Campbell of the Lions
Calls Out Brian Branch for Brawl…
‘His Actions Are Unacceptable’

Published October 13, 2025 6:22 AM PDT

Dan Campbell and Brian Branch

Detroit Lions

Dan Campbell publicly criticized Brian Branch after the Lions’ game, chastising him for escalating tensions post-game following a disappointing loss to the Chiefs.

The incident unfolded immediately after the Lions lost to Kansas City, with Branch striking JuJu Smith-Schuster in anger over a previous block during the match.

Brian Branch displayed immaturity. Post-game, players usually respect each other with handshakes.

While ignoring Patrick Mahomes is trivial, slapping JuJu Smith-Schuster is OUTRAGEOUS pic.twitter.com/LAuj7Dd1Lh

— Dalton Feely (@dfeely14) October 13, 2025
@dfeely14

The altercation triggered a chaotic scene, with players from both teams rushing in to intervene.

Afterwards, Campbell addressed the media, condemning Branch’s conduct.

“I genuinely care for Brian Branch,” the coach stated. “However, what he did is absolutely inexcusable. We cannot accept that behavior here. It’s against our principles.”

Campbell also expressed his regret to Andy Reid, Smith-Schuster, and the Kansas City franchise.

#Lions’ Branch acknowledged he should have refrained from involvement in the fracas but claimed he felt “bullied” during the game. “I acted like a child,” he admitted.

Branch pointed out a missed illegal block from behind at the game’s conclusion, which heightened his frustration. pic.twitter.com/yV6CYcM6hl

— Eric Woodyard (@E_Woodyard) October 13, 2025
@E_Woodyard

Branch later issued an apology during his media session, describing the uncalled back block in the final moments as a trigger for his outburst, labeling his response as “immature.”

A view from the end zone showcasing the blocking foul by Juju Smith-Schuster against Brian Branch. pic.twitter.com/YBUpuGlslw

— Al Karsten (@FootballGuy_Al) October 13, 2025
@FootballGuy_Al

Details regarding potential disciplinary actions from the NFL regarding the star safety remain undisclosed — however, it’s expected that he will face financial consequences soon.