Former Alabama defensive back sidelined until Detroit Lions training camp

Detroit Lions defensive back Brian Branch will be sidelined until training camp, head coach Dan Campbell announced on Thursday.

Before the Lions’ third OTA practice, Campbell mentioned that Branch’s injury is not expected to impact his second NFL season.

“He had a little cleanup there,” Campbell said. “We thought it might heal after last season, but we decided it was best to address it now. He’s progressing well and should be ready for training camp. If not immediately, he’ll get enough reps to be ready for the season.”

Campbell did not specify the injury requiring surgery, but Branch has been seen at the team’s facility with a boot on his foot and using a scooter.

A former standout at Alabama, Branch was drafted by the Lions in the second round of the 2023 NFL Draft and quickly made an impact during Detroit’s best season in decades. In his NFL debut, Branch intercepted a pass and returned it 50 yards for a touchdown, helping the Lions secure a 21-20 victory over the reigning champions, the Kansas City Chiefs.

The Lions won their first division title since 1993 and reached the NFC Championship Game for the first time since 1991, ultimately losing 34-31 to the San Francisco 49ers on January 28. During the regular season, Branch recorded 74 tackles, three interceptions, 13 passes defended, seven tackles for loss, and one forced fumble. He tied for fifth in the AP NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year voting, an award won by his former Alabama teammate Will Anderson Jr., a defensive end for the Houston Texans.

Branch primarily played as the nickel cornerback during his rookie season and also took snaps at safety.

As the Lions wrap up their offseason program and prepare for training camp in late July, rookie cornerbacks Terrion Arnold and Ennis Rakestraw Jr. are seeing limited action in OTAs. Campbell explained that both players have minor issues but nothing of serious concern.

Arnold, drafted from Alabama as the 24th pick, and Rakestraw, selected from Missouri as the 61st pick, are being cautiously managed during these sessions.