The Detroit Lions’ defense struggled significantly in 2025, largely due to injuries in their secondary. Among the toughest setbacks were injuries to safeties Brian Branch and Kerby Joseph, which now leave the team’s safety plans for 2026 uncertain as they face ongoing recovery timelines and potential long-term impacts.
Brian Branch is anticipated to be sidelined until at least October, putting a substantial portion of the upcoming season in doubt. Kerby Joseph’s situation is even more precarious, with a knee injury that remains unpredictable and could affect his performance for the rest of his career. At the NFL combine, General Manager Brad Holmes emphasized the uncertainty surrounding Joseph’s health, noting the organization’s reliance on medical assessments before setting any definitive timelines.
We haven’t put a hard timeline or deadline, but we’ve been in regular communication with our medical staff. They’re working with them. They’re on track to get as healthy as possible. In another month or so, we’ll know a lot more.
– Brad Holmes, Detroit Lions General Manager
Head coach Dan Campbell was more direct about Joseph’s status, expressing that the team still lacks clear answers about his knee’s strength and readiness for the season.
We’re in a position where we’re slowly working him back. Maybe a month from now, maybe a month and a half and we’ll have a much better idea. Will he be able to handle what this feels like? Can we get enough strength? It’s all of those things.
– Dan Campbell, Detroit Lions Head Coach
With these ongoing uncertainties, the Lions face an offseason where the depth of their safety group is in question. The timeline for Joseph’s potential return coincides with critical dates like the free agency period and the NFL draft. This lack of clarity strongly suggests Detroit will look to bolster its safety position through acquisitions or the draft to avoid extended vulnerability.
Detroit Lions Expected to Reinforce Safety Position Amid Injury Concerns
Following the press updates at the combine, it is evident the Lions are preparing to add reinforcements in the safety role this offseason. Neither Branch’s projected midseason return nor Joseph’s doubtful knee recovery provides confidence in the unit’s stability heading into 2026. The situation demands more than just patience, as potential long-term consequences could leave the team significantly exposed.
Detroit has reasons for cautious optimism, including the return of Avonte Maddox, who was a standout acquisition in 2025 free agency. Maddox stepped up impressively at safety when both Branch and Joseph were sidelined, proving his value and versatility. However, Maddox alone will not fully address the depth concerns, amplifying the imperative to identify young talent during the draft and possibly secure veteran help as insurance.
Despite hopeful remarks from leadership, neither Holmes nor Campbell assured fans about the safety group’s readiness next season, highlighting how critical this offseason’s moves will be.
Analyst Bill Barnwell’s recent evaluation of the free agency class offers the Lions some breathing room, but it remains to be seen whether Detroit will prioritize safety acquisitions before the season begins. Given the persistent injury questions, addressing this position early could be decisive for the team’s defensive prospects moving forward.
As the Lions await updated medical evaluations on Joseph and Branch, the next several weeks will play a vital role in shaping their roster strategy. The team must balance optimism with pragmatism to navigate the challenges ahead, making the safety position a key focus for the organization’s immediate offseason actions.
