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Sam LaPorta, Brian Branch Contract Years Loom Over Lions 2026 Season
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- Sam LaPorta, Brian Branch Contract Years Loom Over Lions 2026 Season
Since Brad Holmes took over as the general manager of the Detroit Lions in 2021, he has placed an emphasis on rewarding his players, mostly homegrown, with long-term contract extensions.
Detroit has committed more than $1 billion to its core players, with the latest mega extension being handed to running back Jahmyr Gibbs . The 24-year-old superstar playmaker signed a record-breaking three-year extension worth $67.5 million that can reach $75.75 million.
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The Lions have already invested a bunch of resources in their star players, but the team has two more contract situations to sort out in the coming months: tight end Sam LaPorta and safety Brian Branch.
LaPorta, Branch Included in 2027 Top 25 NFL Free Agents List
Detroit Lions tight end Sam LaPorta (87) dives for a first down against Tennessee Titans safety Amani Hooker (37) during the first half at Ford Field in Detroit on Sunday, Oct. 27, 2024.Syndication: Detroit Free Press
NFL.com's Gregg Rosenthal released his rankings of the top 25 free agents , and LaPorta and Branch made appearances. LaPorta came in at No. 7 and Branch at No. 9.
When on the field, LaPorta and Branch are two of the top players at their positions. LaPorta has established himself as a dynamic target for quarterback Jared Goff, while Branch has formed a formidable duo with Kerby Joseph and is excellent in pass coverage and run defense.
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However, both players are coming off season-ending injuries in 2025. LaPorta missed the second half of the year after back surgery, but is ready for Week 1 next Sunday against the New Orleans Saints. Branch is still recovering from a torn Achilles suffered in December 2025 and will miss at least the first four games of 2026 on the PUP list.
With LaPorta and Branch entering the final years of their deals, 2026 has become a make-or-break year for both. If LaPorta can return as a reliable weapon for Goff, the Lions should sign him to an extension. As for Branch, the Alabama product must show that he's still the same player when he returns.
Detroit Lions Essentials
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This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Sep 7, 2026, where it first appeared in the NFL section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
