An early bye is generally not seen as ideal for NFL teams, but it comes at a favorable time for the Detroit Lions concerning injuries, especially after a series of setbacks in Week 3.
Safety Brian Branch sustained a concussion from a helmet-to-helmet hit with tight end Trey McBride during the Week 3 game against the Cardinals. However, after fully participating in practice last Friday and Saturday, he was not listed as injured for Monday night’s game against the Seattle Seahawks.
On Sunday, Branch was downgraded to doubtful for the game due to an illness. Under coach Dan Campbell, no Lions player listed as doubtful has played, making it likely that Branch was effectively ruled out, which he was when he was inactive against the Seahawks.
In his absence, Brandon Joseph made his first career start, recording six tackles and playing 89 of 90 possible defensive snaps in the win over Seattle.
During his postgame press conference, Campbell was asked whether Branch’s illness was a lingering effect of his concussion.
“No, he passed the protocol,” Campbell clarified. “He’s been sick, and we don’t know the cause, but it’s not worth speculating. I just know he’s sick.”
Given the downgrade in Branch’s status, there were concerns that his illness might be related to his concussion. Concussions can lead to unpredictable recoveries and setbacks, but Campbell confirmed that was not the case. Branch cleared concussion protocol, and his illness was unrelated.
Overall, Branch should be fully ready to return when the Lions face the Dallas Cowboys in Week 6.