[11] During training camp, Branch competed against C. J. Gardner-Johnson, Will Harris, Ifeatu Melifonwu, and Brady Breeze for the role as the primary backup safety and starting nickelback.

[18] On September 24, 2023, Branch earned his first career start and collected a season-high 11 solo tackles and made two pass deflections during a 20–9 victory against the Atlanta Falcons.

In Week 4, he made seven combined tackles (five solo) before he was carted off the field due to an ankle injury as the Lions defeated the Green Bay Packers 34–20.

[19] On December 24, 2023, Branch recorded six combined tackles (five solo), two pass deflections, one interception, and had his first career sack on Nick Mullens during a 30–24 victory at the Minnesota Vikings.

He finished his rookie campaign in 2023 with a total of 74 combined tackles (50 solo), three interceptions, 13 passes defended, one forced fumble, and a single sack in 15 games and nine starts.

[22] Branch entered training camp slated as the starting nickelback and the primary backup safety behind projected starters Ifeatu Melifonwu and Kerby Joseph.

On January 18, 2025, Branch started in his first postseason appearance and lead his team with 11 combined tackles (eight solo) and had a forced fumble as the Lions lost the Divisional Round 45–31 to the Washington Commanders.