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Before the Detroit Lions took the practice field on Friday afternoon, head coach Dan Campbell shared the latest injury news regarding several key players, including running back Isiah Pacheco, safety Brian Branch, safety Kerby Joseph, and safety Thomas Harper.
Safety Kerby Joseph has been limited in practice and has not yet taken part in team drills. On Thursday, he was seen wearing a compression sleeve on his injured left knee. Campbell, a former NFL tight end, noted that players often wear sleeves to help reduce swelling, but he expressed no concern about Joseph's knee at this point. The team plans to increase Joseph's practice participation significantly next week.
Running back Isiah Pacheco, formerly of the Kansas City Chiefs, has a chance to return to game action in December. He underwent surgery for a back injury and also dealt with a knee issue during training camp. “He's progressing well. I do think there's a chance we could get him back in late December,” Campbell said. “He's put a tremendous amount of work in. He's doing pretty good.”
Safety Thomas Harper remains on injured reserve after suffering an ankle injury against the Buffalo Bills. According to Campbell, Harper is close to returning and has rehabbed well. His progress suggests he could be back to bolster the defense at some point in the coming weeks.
Safety Brian Branch, in his first game back from an Achilles injury, was on a limited snap count in his 2026 season debut. Although he saw more playing time in the second half against the Packers, this week gives defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard the flexibility to use the former second-round pick as he sees fit. The sixth-year head coach indicated that Branch will have no restrictions moving forward, as he came out of his first game feeling confident.
Sheppard highlighted the impact Branch had on his teammates in the Week 7 home victory. “I think the effect he had on his teammates. One of my favorite things from that game, I don't know if you guys caught this, go back and watch it. It's super cool. On his interception, he's still backpedaling. And right when he opens his hip, the ball's launched. And Chuck Clark, before BB opens his hip, raises his hand,” Sheppard said. “And this is what I mean when I say affecting the teammates. He raises his hand. When he sees BB open his hip, he puts both hands in the air. I mean, I've never seen that. I'm like, 'Chuck, you run to the ball.' Nope, the play's over. And just what that does for teammates, what that did, the swagger it brings, knowing you have an enforcer who can go cover the number one receiver. BB's a rare player in this league. We're all happy to have him back.”
Key Analysis
The Lions are managing a series of injuries as they navigate the season. Joseph's knee issue appears minor, and his increased practice load next week will be a positive sign. Pacheco's potential late-December return could provide a boost to the running game, while Harper's impending comeback adds depth to the secondary. Branch's return without limitations is crucial for a defense that values his versatility and playmaking ability. Campbell and his staff are carefully monitoring these situations to ensure players return at full strength.