Brian Branch: Everything you need to know

Branch (Achilles) will most likely remain on the sideline until training camp at the earliest, Eric Woodyard of ESPN reports. The safety tore his ACL in Week 14 of the 2025 campaign, and while he's on track in his recovery, he has not recovered just yet, per Woodyard. It's also possible that Branch opens the 2026 campaign on the physically unable to perform list, according to Woodyard, citing Lions coach Dan Campbell. Branch recorded 75 tackles (48 solo) and nine pass breakups in 12 games last year.

The Lions placed Branch (Achilles) on injured reserve Saturday. Branch underwent successful surgery Wednesday to address a torn Achilles suffered during the Week 14 win over Dallas. With a recovery timeline of eight to 12 months, he'll now shift his focus to recovering in time for the start of the 2026 regular season. Branch finishes the 2025 season with 75 tackles, including 2.5 sacks, and nine passes defended over 12 games.

Branch (Achilles) has a recovery timetable of 8-12 months after undergoing a successful surgery to address the torn Achilles he suffered Dec. 4 against the Cowboys, coach Dan Campbell said Wednesday, Justin Rogers of Detroit Football Network reports. Branch has a high likelihood of missing at least some of the 2026 season due to this injury. Daniel Thomas will likely assume the starting strong safety role for the remainder of the 2025 season in Branch's absence.