That’s especially true for the Detroit Lions. The 2024 injury bug that hit them hard last season hasn’t been as bad this time, but it’s clear they still need some luck to stay fully healthy.

Head coach Dan Campbell told reporters ahead of Week 9 that the team expects to have Brian Branch (suspension), Terrion Arnold (shoulder), and Taylor Decker (shoulder) back at practice this week. However, one key name was missing from his update: safety Kerby Joseph.

Having both Joseph and Branch back would be massive for the Lions’ defense, but it doesn’t sound likely for their matchup against the Minnesota Vikings. Campbell shared on 97.1 FM The Ticket Wednesday that Joseph is improving after a Week 6 knee injury but still isn’t ready to return.

Joseph still sidelined after sustaining knee injury

Joseph has been one of Detroit’s top defenders in coverage this season, totaling three interceptions, four pass breakups, and 18 tackles. Quarterbacks have largely avoided throwing his way, proving his value to a thin Lions secondary. Without him, Branch is expected to take on a major role against Minnesota’s dangerous receiver group.

Branch has also been one of the Lions’ key defensive playmakers this season. Though he hasn’t recorded a takeaway yet, he’s come close several times and is eager to return after serving his suspension for the Week 7 matchup versus the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

So what does this mean for Detroit’s approach versus J.J. McCarthy and the Vikings’ offense? The “Legion of Whom” will once again be relied upon heavily, especially if Arnold isn’t ready to play. Erick Hallett and Arthur Maulet should step up again, while Thomas Harper is available to fill in for Joseph alongside Branch.

Minnesota’s passing game might still be uncertain since this will be McCarthy’s first outing since Week 2 against the Atlanta Falcons. The Vikings are readjusting to his pocket presence and will hope his unpredictability—given his limited action this season—can give them an edge against Detroit’s defense.