Lions remain committed to extending contracts for Sam LaPorta and Brian Branch

Detroit Lions general manager Brad Holmes confirmed on Wednesday, Sept. 2, that the organization intends to pursue contract extensions for Sam LaPorta and Brian Branch. Holmes previously stated a goal to retain the core members of the 2023 draft class, having already completed new deals for Jack Campbell and Jahmyr Gibbs. Both LaPorta and Branch are recovering from season-ending injuries sustained during the 2025 campaign. While LaPorta has returned to practice, Branch is currently on the reserve/Physically Unable to Perform list and is sidelined for at least the first four games of the 2026 season. Holmes noted that while there are factors to sort through, the intent to secure both players long-term remains unchanged.

• 1:03 AMYahoo Sports — Brad Holmes: Long-term plans for Sam LaPorta, Brian Branch haven't changed
• 3:59 PMYahoo Sports — 'Plans haven't changed' on extensions for Sam LaPorta, Brian Branch