Brian Branch’s Successful Achilles Surgery Sparks Optimism for Lions’ Recovery
Detroit Lions safety Brian Branch has successfully undergone surgery to repair a torn Achilles tendon, providing a glimmer of hope for a swift recovery. The injury occurred during a matchup against the Dallas Cowboys, forcing the former second-round pick to be carted off the field in visible distress. Lions head coach Dan Campbell confirmed the surgery’s success, stating, “He has. He’s had it repaired and it sounds like everything went well. They’re always going to give you the eight to twelve months or whatever that is from the time of the surgery. But the surgery went well. Everything went well.”
Al-Quadin Muhammad Shines with NFC Defensive Player of the Week Honors
After a standout performance in which he recorded three sacks against the Cowboys, veteran defensive end Al-Quadin Muhammad earned the NFC Defensive Player of the Week award. Campbell commended Muhammad not only for his defensive contributions but also for his selflessness and commitment to the team’s special teams.
“It’s just putting our best rushers out there, and he’s one of those guys,” Campbell noted. “We felt like getting him on the edge opposite of (Aidan Hutchinson) on some stuff was important. He had some early production too, so you’re just going to keep going back to the well there. But he did a great job. He does a good job for us, no matter what. He’s playing special teams for us too now. He’s running on kickoffs. I mean, he does anything you ask him to do, and he cares about it and he works at it. Whatever you need, he’ll do. So, proud of him. He helped us win that game the other day.”
Frank Ragnow’s Future Remains Uncertain but Hopeful
In the midst of these developments, offensive line coach Hank Fraley addressed the situation of Frank Ragnow, emphasizing the player’s impressive pain tolerance even though a recent training setback hindered his return. “Unfortunately, he got a little nicked up in his training. He’s been training the whole time, but unfortunately it didn’t go that route. I’m not disappointed at all; it’s just unfortunate he had that. What was it? A grade three or whatever it turned out to be,” Fraley explained. “He just thought it was a little tweak. That’s how tough he was, and that’s how tough he was when he played here.”
While Fraley did not engage in discussions regarding Ragnow’s potential return, he hinted that the door remains open for the 2026 season should Ragnow decide to make a comeback. “If he wanted to be back, though, that door is open,” Fraley assured reporters.
Looking Ahead for the Lions
As the Lions navigate these challenges, the team’s resilience and depth will be tested. With Branch’s recovery timeline set and Muhammad’s recent accolades boosting morale, the Lions are poised to maintain their competitive edge. The ongoing development of Ragnow’s situation adds an intriguing layer to the team’s future, as they look to build on their successes and overcome obstacles in the season ahead.
