The Detroit Lions will open training camp without three notable players on the practice field.
Detroit announced Sunday that defensive backs Brian Branch and Kerby Joseph, along with tight end Tyler Conklin, have been placed on the physically unable to perform list.
Lions Secondary Opens Camp Shorthanded
The biggest concern centers on Branch and Joseph, two of the most important players in Detroit’s secondary.
Joseph had recently pushed back against speculation that he would begin camp on PUP. Responding to a post from Jimmy Liao MD on X, Joseph wrote, “How much yall wanna bet im not on there 👌🤔”
The Lions’ official announcement delivered a different result.
Joseph has been dealing with a knee issue, while Branch has also been working his way back from injury. Detroit can remove either player from the active/PUP list once the medical staff clears him to practice.
Conklin’s absence will create additional opportunities behind Sam LaPorta during the early portion of camp.
Bottom Line
Placing Branch, Joseph and Conklin on PUP does not mean any of the three will miss regular-season games. It does mean the Lions will begin camp cautiously with two cornerstone defensive backs and a veteran tight end.
Joseph sounded confident he would avoid the list. For now, Detroit’s medical staff has chosen patience.
