NFL ejects Lions’ Brian Branch for hit on Packers’ Bo Melton

Lions defenseman Brian Branch has been suspended from today’s game against the Packers following a decision by the league’s officiating office.

Branch hit Packers receiver Bo Melton in the head after an incomplete pass, drawing a flag for unnecessary roughness. The league office in New York reviewed the play and told the referee to remove Branch from the game.

Branch was then penalized again for something he said to the officials as he left the field after the ejection.

It’s a big loss for the Lions as Branch is one of their best players. It was also a huge penalty for the Lions, as the Packers were supposed to be facing third-and-20 but were instead awarded an automatic first down, although they ultimately failed to score on the drive as Brandon McManus missed a field goal.

In an interesting wrinkle in the piece, Tom Brady, who called the piece on Fox, said he disagreed with the league’s decision to cut Branch. Brady is a minority owner of the Raiders and is subject to the same rules as all team personnel, limiting criticism of the league or its officials. Branch may not be the only one in trouble with the league office this week.