Newly signed center Cade Mays will miss the opener after sustaining a broken bone in his wrist during Training Camp. In addition, safeties Brian Branch and Kerby Joseph have been placed on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list, sidelining them for at least the first four games of the season.
Lions safeties coach Jim O’Neill provided an upbeat update on their recovery. He indicated both Branch and Joseph are making strong strides in rehab and are progressing well. “They’re crushing rehab from what I hear,” O’Neill said, highlighting the team’s overall positive momentum as camp wrapped up.
The team is coming off a demanding and highly competitive Training Camp, which O’Neill described as one of the hardest he’s been a part of. He credited the rigorous practices with helping the players elevate their performance across offense and defense. The period featured high-level competition, with players going up against notable teammates and prospects, contributing to a noticeable upgrade in readiness as the season approaches.
Despite the current absence of Branch and Joseph, the Lions are preparing for life without them for the early part of the campaign. The decision on when they will return to action will be determined by head coach Dan Campbell in consultation with general manager Brad Holmes. O’Neill emphasized that both players are actively participating in meetings and continuing their rehabilitation, underscoring their commitment and progress.
Last season, Branch and Joseph dealt with injuries that limited them to a combined 15 games. Joseph sustained a lower-body injury after Week 6, while Branch suffered a torn Achilles in December, ending his season prematurely. Following the 2026 NFL Draft, Holmes offered cautious optimism about both safeties, acknowledging that injuries and depth at the position were factors in play. He noted that the team did not overlook safety depth, but the timing of opportunities and player availability did not align as hoped.
Looking ahead, the Lions will weigh their options and timelines for Branch and Joseph’s return, balancing the need to protect long-term health with the urgency to strengthen the secondary as the season unfolds. In the meantime, the club will rely on those ready to contribute early, continuing to build depth and cohesion through practice and preparation.
Key takeaways:
– Cade Mays is out with a wrist fracture during Training Camp.
– Brian Branch and Kerby Joseph are on the PUP list and will miss at least the first four games.
– Both players are progressing well in rehab, with ongoing participation in team activities.
– The Lions’ coaching staff and front office will determine the best path for their return, prioritizing long-term health and team performance.
– The team emphasizes the overall hard work and improvement achieved during Training Camp, setting a foundation for future success once the injured players are able to contribute.
