ALLEN PARK, Mich. — The Detroit Lions are cautiously optimistic regarding the potential return of key players Kerby Joseph, Brian Branch, and Isiah Pacheco as the season progresses. General manager Brad Holmes shared his hopes on Wednesday, indicating that while he refrained from providing specific timelines for their recoveries, he remains positive about their chances of returning to the field this year.
Kerby Joseph, a standout safety for the Lions, has been dealing with a knee injury that has limited his participation. Last season, he played in only six games due to this ongoing issue, which has kept him working primarily with the team's training staff throughout the summer. Joseph's impressive performance in 2024 earned him All-Pro honors, and he subsequently signed a lucrative four-year contract worth $86 million, making him one of the highest-paid safeties in the NFL.
Brian Branch, another critical component of the Lions' defense, suffered a torn left Achilles tendon last December. Similar to Joseph, Branch has been limited to workouts with trainers while his teammates practice. Despite his injury, he made a significant impact during his rookie season, finishing fifth in the voting for Defensive Rookie of the Year in 2023 and receiving Pro Bowl recognition in his second year.
Isiah Pacheco, the backup running back, was placed on injured reserve on Tuesday due to a back injury, which compounds a pre-existing sprained knee ligament he has been managing throughout training camp. The Lions had high hopes for Pacheco, who was signed to a one-year, $1.81 million deal as a free agent. He is expected to back up three-time Pro Bowl running back Jahmyr Gibbs after the team traded veteran David Montgomery to the Houston Texans.
Pacheco's track record is impressive; over the past three seasons, he has accumulated more than 3,000 yards of offense and scored 17 touchdowns. He also played a pivotal role in the Kansas City Chiefs' success, starting in seven playoff games and contributing to the team's victories in two Super Bowls. However, injuries have plagued him, limiting his appearances to just 20 regular-season games over the last two years.
The Lions are set to kick off their season at home against the New Orleans Saints on September 13. The potential return of Joseph, Branch, and Pacheco could significantly bolster the team's performance as they aim for a successful campaign in the upcoming NFL season.
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