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Lions' Brian Branch Rehab Progresses, Return Date Uncertain

6/12/2026

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Summary

Brian Branch Recovery

Head coach Dan Campbell said safety Brian Branch’s recovery shows no setbacks and no set return date.
Branch tore his Achilles on Dec 4, 2025, ending his 2025 season.
Campbell said a Dec 2026 return would be a bonus if earlier.
The Lions could put Branch on the Physically Unable to Perform list, costing four games.
His rehab, which will shape his 2027 contract, leads Lions to prioritize recovery over rushing him back.

Summary

Campbell Delays Timeline

Dan Campbell joked he would “widen the window” and label December as the baseline, avoiding a precise timeline for Brian Branch’s return.
He said there is always a chance Branch could be ready for training camp, but he hates to set a timetable.
Lions GM Brad Holmes said the team wants to extend Branch but will wait for clear medical reassurance before a new contract.

Summary

Kerby Joseph Recovery

Safety Kerby Joseph is recovering from a knee injury, prompting the Lions to test safety combos.
Free-agent signings Chuck Clark and Christian Izien have led first-team reps in the Lions’ OTAs.
Veteran corner Avonte Maddox is expected back on the roster after missing the prior season.
Detroit opens the 2026 season on September 13 versus the New Orleans Saints while offensive coordinator (OC) Drew Petzing calls WR room a “good problem.”

History

Historical Context

After the 2012 collective-bargaining agreement let one injured-reserve player return after eight games, the NFL gradually expanded the rule—two returns in 2017 and a four-game minimum in 2022. Commissioner Roger Goodell and the NFLPA drove the change. Today, Detroit Lions coach Dan Campbell and GM Brad Holmes consider keeping safety Brian Branch on the PUP list following his December 2025 Achilles tear, echoing the earlier precaution.

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Brian Branch Recovery

Head coach Dan Campbell said safety Brian Branch’s recovery shows no setbacks and no set return date.
Branch tore his Achilles on Dec 4, 2025, ending his 2025 season.
Campbell said a Dec 2026 return would be a bonus if earlier.
The Lions could put Branch on the Physically Unable to Perform list, costing four games.
His rehab, which will shape his 2027 contract, leads Lions to prioritize recovery over rushing him back.

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