Brian Branch, an exciting young safety for the Detroit Lions, is known for his incredible skills in stopping the run and covering receivers.
The Lions drafted him in the second round in 2023, and he made an instant impact.
At just 24 years old, he’s already considered one of the best safeties in the league, with some polls ranking him as high as second overall.
He even grabbed an interception in the 2025 Pro Bowl Games, proving he’s a playmaker.
But it’s not just his talent that catches attention.
Fans are Buzzing About the Green Mouthpiece on his Detroit Lions Helmet
It’s not in his mouth; it’s tucked into a vent on his Riddell SpeedFlex helmet. This quirky habit has become his signature style, and it’s known as the “green thing” to many.
So, why does he do it? Branch says the mouthpiece makes it hard to breathe. In a 2023 interview, he explained,
“I put it up there because I can’t really breathe with it in. Especially if we’re on the field for a long time.”
Via SI
He started this tradition back in college at Alabama, and it has since become a staple.
The NFL requires players to have a mouthguard for safety, so Branch keeps his on his helmet to follow the rule without wearing it in his mouth.
Branch
byu/xOscarO indetroitlions
The green color is his personal choice. He’s always worn a green mouthpiece, and he says it has a deeper meaning, though he keeps that private.
He told the reporter,
“The green, I’ve always pretty much wore a green mouthpiece. It has a deeper meaning, but I can’t really share,”
Via detroitnews
The bright lime-green mouthpiece wags as he moves on the field, making it a standout part of his look.
Fans first noticed the mouthpiece early in his Lions career. It really grabbed attention after his pick-six against Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes in the 2023 season opener.
That play put Branch in the spotlight, and the mouthpiece became his calling card. People ask him about it almost daily, and as he continues to make plays, it’s only getting more famous.
In the 2025 season, you could still see it in games against the Packers and Bears.
Recently, Branch Made Headlines for a Different Reason
During a tough loss to the Chiefs on Sunday Night Football at Arrowhead Stadium, tempers flared after the game.
The Branch refused to shake hands with Patrick Mahomes and then punched Chiefs wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster.
The open-handed slap knocked Smith-Schuster down, sparking a brief fight between players from both teams.
Mahomes called out the behavior, and while Smith-Schuster took the high road, many called Branch’s actions “inexcusable.” It revealed his fiery side, but also sparked some controversy.
Despite this, Branch remains a star for the Lions. His talent, energy, and that iconic green mouthpiece make him a fan favorite.
As he continues to grow in the NFL, expect more big plays and more talk about his unique style.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- Branch grew up in Fayetteville, Georgia, and attended Sandy Creek High School.
- He played in 12 games during his freshman season at Alabama, making 27 tackles, seven passes defended, and two interceptions.
