The Detroit Lions have finalized their injury report ahead of their matchup with the Los Angeles Rams, and it includes multiple notable absences.
Detroit confirmed Friday that safeties Kerby Joseph and Brian Branch will not be available for the game. Meanwhile, left tackle Taylor Decker was listed as questionable, joining six other Lions whose status remains uncertain heading into kickoff.
Head coach Dan Campbell addressed the situation during media availability, explaining that Joseph suffered a setback in his recovery. Campbell also discussed defensive back Thomas Harper, offering a more optimistic outlook for his availability.
“Kerby hit a snag, so that’s obviously concerning,” Campbell said. “Harper should be practicing today, and I feel fairly confident about him, but nothing is set in stone yet. We’ve got other guys stepping up—Erick Hallett, Daniel Thomas, Avonte Maddox—they’ve all been getting reps. Those snaps matter, and we’ll be fine.”
As the season winds down, Campbell acknowledged that Joseph’s injury could potentially sideline him for the remainder of the year, even if it wouldn’t normally require a long recovery period.
“It’s possible,” Campbell noted. “At this point in the season, even something that isn’t considered long-term can become long-term because there just aren’t many games left.”
With Brian Branch already ruled out for the rest of the 2025 campaign, Detroit may find itself pushing for the postseason without two of the league’s premier safeties.
Defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard shared his thoughts on Branch’s injury and praised the players who have stepped in to fill the void, particularly Avonte Maddox.
“I spoke with Brian recently, and it’s heartbreaking,” Sheppard said. “He’s one of the best people and competitors I’ve ever been around. It’s not just about talent—his mindset and daily approach are special. I know he’ll come back stronger.”
Sheppard also emphasized the importance of depth stepping up in Branch’s absence.
“When you lose a player like that, it’s impossible not to feel it,” he added. “But credit to the guys who answered the call. Avonte Maddox, a Detroit native, played outstanding football. If you watched that performance without knowing the name or number, you’d say that’s winning football—and that’s something we can build on
