Detroit Lions Face Safety Dilemma as Brian Branch Suffers Season-Ending Injury
The Detroit Lions are grappling with a significant setback in their safety lineup as injuries continue to plague the position. With both starting safeties currently sidelined, the team is in search of solutions to bolster its defensive backfield.
Injury Woes Compound
Kerby Joseph, who earned All-Pro honors last season and led the NFL in interceptions, has been unavailable since Week 6 due to a knee injury. The situation took a turn for the worse on Thursday when Brian Branch tore his Achilles tendon, a devastating injury that will keep him out for the rest of the season. Additionally, Thomas Harper is dealing with a concussion, further complicating the Lions’ safety depth.
As it stands, Avonte Maddox and Daniel Thomas are poised to step into starting roles in Week 15 and beyond. While there is speculation that Joseph could return in the coming weeks, the Lions urgently need to address their thinning roster.
Internal and External Options
To compensate for Branch’s absence, the Lions may consider elevating players like Erick Hallett or Loren Strickland from their practice squad. However, the free-agent market offers some intriguing veteran options that could significantly bolster their defense.
Potential Free-Agent Targets
1. Tyrann Mathieu
Currently retired, Mathieu announced his decision to step away from the game before training camp. Recently, he hinted at the possibility of a return during an interview. Although he has mentioned the Houston Texans as a potential landing spot, the chance to contribute to a playoff contender like the Lions could be appealing. With three All-Pro selections and 36 career interceptions, Mathieu still possesses the skills needed to make an immediate impact. Last season, he recorded three interceptions and 62 tackles, showcasing that he still has much to offer.
2. Justin Simmons
Once a Pro Bowl safety with the Denver Broncos, Simmons last played in 2024 for the Atlanta Falcons. Known for his ability to create turnovers, he recorded six interceptions in 2022 and has a history of making plays in crucial moments. At 32 years old, he has been out of the league this season but has expressed interest in joining a team for a playoff push. His instincts and ball-hawking abilities could prove invaluable to the Lions as they navigate this injury crisis.
3. Damontae Kazee
Kazee most recently played with the Cleveland Browns earlier in the season and brings experience and versatility to the safety position. Although his time with the Browns was short-lived, his familiarity with the NFL landscape could make him a viable option for the Lions.
4. Eric Reid
Though he hasn’t played since the 2020 season, Reid has been a proven player in the league and could offer depth and leadership to the Lions’ secondary. His experience could help stabilize a group that is currently in flux.
As the Lions prepare for the next phase of their season, they face the challenge of navigating injuries while maintaining competitive performance on the field. The decision to sign a veteran safety could provide much-needed reinforcement as they aim to contend in the NFC.
