{
  "id": 11748095,
  "title": "Lions Expected to Get 'Heartbeat' of Defense Back Soon",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/03/lions-expected-to-get-heartbeat-of-defense-back-soon",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-10-03T18:54:58.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Newsweek",
    "slug": "newsweek",
    "url": "https://www.newsweek.com/sports/nfl/lions-expected-to-get-heartbeat-of-defense-back-soon-12520907"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "The Detroit Lions are optimistic they will soon have a significant boost to their defense following injuries to their secondary. It was reported that the team was interested in acquiring cornerback Joey Porter Jr. this season, but Dallas Cowboys secured him in a trade with the Pittsburgh Steelers. However, the Lions have reason to be hopeful soon, as cornerback Brian Branch is expected to return to practice within the upcoming week. Branch, who suffered a torn Achilles tendon in late December, has been diligently working to regain his fitness and has reported making substantial progress.\n\nBranch, a second-round pick in the 2023 NFL draft, contributed significantly to the Lions' defense during the previous season, tallying 48 tackles and recording one forced fumble in 12 games. His return is anticipated to have a substantial impact on the Lions' secondary, which has conceded 85 points in the first three weeks of the current season. Head coach Dan Campbell emphasized that the team is actively working to bolster the roster at every position and will not hesitate to make trades if an opportunity arises that aligns with their needs and valuation. The Lions currently stand at 2-1 after a weekend game against the Carolina Panthers, who are dealing with injuries to key players Xavier Lagette and Jalen Coker, both of whom are doubtful for the upcoming Sunday Night Football matchup.",
  "summary": "The Detroit Lions are expected to get a key player in the secondary back to practice soon amid injuries at safety and cornerback.",
  "key_points": [
    "Detroit Lions aim to improve defense after key injuries.",
    "Cornerback Brian Branch set to return from Achilles injury.",
    "Team open to trades to strengthen roster."
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}