​The Detroit Lions enter 2026 training camp with what may be the most unsettled safety room in the entire organization, largely due to health questions surrounding Kerby Joseph and Brian Branch. Below is the analysis on these two standout safeties and their road to the upcoming season. For the full safety preview, check Lions 2026 Training Camp Medical Preview: Safety.
Age at start of season is in parentheses. Clicking a player’s name will show the full medical report if available. Medical concern level: 10/10. Those who have followed my coverage know the gravity of Joseph’s knee issue. It’s unusual to describe a 25-year-old All-Pro’s training camp as potentially make-or-break, but that appears to be the reality. Outlook: If Joseph handles camp well, he is likely to be managed carefully during the season to protect his knee and ensure he can play a full slate. If camp does not go well after nearly a year of recovery, there is a real chance he could be placed on IR early, which could end his season, and possibly his tenure with the Lions.
Medical concern level: 8/10. Branch suffered a late-season Achilles rupture in December, and current information suggests there will be carry-over effects into 2026. So far, there has been no sign of an early return, pointing to a likely 10- to 11-month recovery timeline with a return in October or November. Unlike Joseph, Branch’s return is virtually certain; what remains uncertain is what he will look like once back on the field. Achilles injuries can leave lingering effects, as seen with former Lions safety Tracy Walker. Outlook: Branch is expected to begin training camp on the physically unable to perform list and remain there for at least the first four weeks of the regular season. The Branch-watch would then begin in Week 5 against the Cardinals on October 11, a game timed just before the bye week. The bye provides two additional recovery weeks after his first game back, which could help him ease into action.
For more Lions coverage, follow us on X at @TheLionsWire and like our Facebook page. You can also follow Jimmy on X at @JimmyLiaoMD. This article originally appeared on Lions Wire as Detroit Lions Training Camp Medical Preview: Safeties Joseph & Branch.