Lions Get Much-Needed Update on Safety Brian Branch

The Detroit Lions have been significantly impacted by the injuries to their starting safeties, Brian Branch and Kerby Joseph, during their 2026 NFL season opener. In the first four games of the year, Detroit has allowed an alarming 304 passing yards per game, more than 20 yards more than the next-worst team. They are also the only team allowing 31.8 points per game, trailing only the New Orleans Saints at 32 points.

However, there is some relief for the Lions as Branch returned to the practice field on Wednesday, opening up his 21-day activation window. Head coach Dan Campbell expressed relief at this development, stating that any return from injury is welcome. Unfortunately, Branch suffered a season-ending Achilles tear during Week 14 of the 2025 season and is unlikely to play in the upcoming Week 5 game against the Arizona Cardinals due to the Lions' bye week in Week 6.

Detroit's next game, a crucial Week 7 matchup against their division-rival Green Bay Packers, is scheduled for October 25, kicking off at 4:25 p.m. ET.