Kerby Joseph and Brian Branch have developed a reputation as one of the NFL’s most dangerous safety pairings when both are available. But injuries have cast doubt on whether the Detroit Lions will consistently see the two on the field together again.
During an appearance on the Lions Collective podcast, Lions general manager Brad Holmes discussed Joseph’s ongoing recovery and where things currently stand.
Joseph’s knee issue has created some uneasiness inside and outside the organization, particularly because concerns have been raised about the possibility of arthritis or other long-term degenerative problems. Conditions like that can threaten a player’s longevity in the league. The situation is especially frustrating considering Joseph’s recent success. In 2024, he delivered a standout campaign that earned him first-team All-Pro honors after finishing the season with the most interceptions in the league. Even though injuries limited him to just six games in 2025, Joseph still managed to lead Detroit with three interceptions, tying with D. J. Reed as the only Lions defenders with multiple picks.
Holmes explained that the team expects to have a clearer picture of Joseph’s recovery soon, noting that he should have more information within a few weeks — a timeline that coincides with the upcoming NFL Draft. Whether or not Holmes publicly shares those details, Detroit’s draft strategy could reveal how confident the organization is about Joseph’s long-term health.
Holmes also addressed the status of Branch, whose injury situation is more straightforward. Branch suffered a torn Achilles late in the season, an injury that historically required a lengthy recovery. However, advances in modern sports medicine have allowed many players to return faster than in the past. Still, it remains uncertain if Branch will be ready to play at any point during the 2026 season.
With Branch approaching the point where he could be eligible for a contract extension, Holmes said the team has evaluated how other players have bounced back from similar injuries. He hinted that the organization has looked closely at comparable recovery cases while planning for the future.
One interesting side note from Holmes’ comments was his mention of another player recovering from a similar injury. While he did not name anyone specifically, some observers have speculated it could refer to someone like Najee Harris, who also dealt with an Achilles tear last season. Detroit has since added Isiah Pacheco, which would fit Holmes’ pattern of targeting players with high potential who are working their way back from injuries.
Regarding Branch’s contract outlook, Holmes said the Lions will certainly factor in his Achilles recovery when evaluating a potential extension. However, he emphasized that the injury alone will not determine the team’s decision. Holmes also mentioned another young player, Sam LaPorta, as someone whose future contract considerations could follow a similar evaluation process.
For now, both Joseph and Branch remain on the path back from significant injuries. Their ability to return to form — and how the Lions choose to manage those recoveries — could have a major impact on how Detroit’s defense performs in the 2026 season.
