Lions injury updates: Brian Branch could return to practice this week

Lions head coach Dan Campbell delivered some much-needed good news on Monday.

Brian Branch could make his return to practice this week as the Lions (2-2) get ready to battle the Arizona Cardinals (1-3) in Week 5 on Sunday.

The Pro Bowl safety suffered a torn Achilles last December and was placed on the physically unable to perform list to begin the 2026 season.

“I’m hopeful (Branch will practice this week). We have not gotten confirmation from the doctor yet. That’s the only thing we’re waiting for. I think it looks really good that he’s going to practice this week,” Campbell said.

Injury updates from Coach Campbell on Brian Branch, Rock Ya-Sin and Tyleik Williams pic.twitter.com/OYh65va4Zj

— Detroit Lions (@Lions) October 5, 2026

If and when Branch makes his return to practice, it will start a 21-day practice window. The Lions would need to activate Branch off the PUP list within those 21 days.

A speedy return from Branch would be a major shot in the arm to a Lions defense that currently ranks last in total defense (423.8 yards per game), passing defense (304 passing yards per game), and scoring defense (31.8 points per game).

Branch, a second-round pick out of Alabama in 2023, was a Pro Bowler in 2024. The 6-foot, 203-pound safety has registered 258 tackles, 38 passes defended, 20 tackles for loss, 14 quarterback hits, seven interceptions, 4.5 sacks, and three forced fumbles in 43 career regular-season games thus far.

Lions cornerback Rock Ya-Sin exited Sunday night’s contest at the Panthers with a hamstring injury and did not return. Ya-Sin started each of Detroit’s first two games this season. Detroit starting defensive tackle Tyleik Williams was also spotted with a boot on his left foot in the locker room after the Carolina game.

Campbell also provided an injury update on Ya-Sin and Williams on Monday afternoon.

“I don’t think Rock looks good right now. Tyleik is touch-and-go. He’ll be day-to-day,” Campbell said.

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This article originally appeared on Lions Wire: Lions injury updates: Brian Branch could return to practice this week