Kerby Joseph, Brian Branch injury update bring zero clarity to return timeline

The Detroit Lions will start the new season without two key starters, as safeties Kerby Joseph and Brian Branch were placed on the reserve/PUP list on Sunday.

Joseph is dealing with a knee injury, while Branch is still recovering from an Achilles injury. Neither participated in training camp. Presumably, the Lions are taking extra caution with them, but of course, having them return to action soon is the goal.

In a report from ESPN’s Eric Woodyard, Lions general manager Brad Holmes was cautiously optimistic about the return of Joseph and Branch.

“We still have confidence that they can come back. You just can’t really give an exact timeline. But they’re both here, they’re rehabbing, they’re working hard. We just can’t offer a timeline. But yeah, the hope is to have both of them back soon,” said Holmes.

With the 25-year-old Joseph and the 24-year-old Branch still out of commission, the Lions are expecting safeties Avonte Maddox and Chuck Clark to step up. Maddox is in his second year in Detroit, while Clark is in his maiden stint in Motor City.

Last season, Joseph, an All-Pro First Team in 2024, tallied 18 total tackles, four passes defended, and three interceptions in six games. Branch, a Pro Bowler in 2024, meanwhile, had 75 total tackles, 2.5 sacks, and nine passes defended in 12 games.

Branch is in the final year of his rookie contract, along with tight end Sam LaPorta.

“We still want to keep those guys around. Those plans hadn’t changed. There are a couple of factors that we still gotta sort through, but in terms of us wanting those guys around, absolutely. Hopefully, we can get that done,” added Holmes.

The Lions will face the New Orleans Saints in Week 1.

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