Brian Branch is close to returning to the Detroit Lions secondary, and it seems like he could be ready to truly explode back onto the scene.
The Lions need him back as soon as possible, and the gloom surrounding Kerby Joseph's injury put even more urgency on Branch getting healthy. More importantly, Detroit needs Branch to come back and play at least close to the level he was before his injury, because its pass defense is one of the worst in the league.
Even with only 12 games played last season, Branch led the Lions' defensive backs in tackles (75), quarterback pressures (8) and sacks (2.5). In addition, out of five Detroit DBs who were targeted at least 40 times, Branch allowed the fewest receptions (23). It's safe to say the Lions need him on every level.
Head coach Dan Campbell said Branch won't leave him alone about his return.
"He's close, yeah. He's ready to go. I'm tired of listening to him," Campbell said with a smirk Friday. "I mean that in a good way. He's put in a ton of work, and he looks really good. He's close."
How soon could Brian Branch return?
As much as fans would enjoy seeing No. 32 on the field against the Panthers, his 2026 debut likely won't come until Oct. 25 against the Packers. That game also follows the Lions' bye week, so Branch would have plenty of time to get reacquainted with live action. Expect to see the Lions open up his 21-day practice window next week.
Another key player is expected to return against Green Bay, but on the other side of the ball. Center Cade Mays should make his Lions debut, and both could provide a much needed spark for a team that appears to have more than its fair share of question marks through three games.
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With the secondary so depleted, Branch's versatility would be especially useful. He can line up as a deep safety, in the slot, at the nickel, and basically anywhere you see green. Branch can't be everywhere at once, but he might have to play like it, because it doesn't seem like any notable help is coming via trade any time soon.
Branch would take his spot back from Christian Izien, who replaced Thomas Harper, who replaced Avonte Maddox. Alongside Branch is Chuck Clark, who has been solid in the place of Joseph so far this season.
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