INJURY UPDATE: Detroit Lions Give Update on Defensive Back After Scary Head Injury

Detroit Lions defensive back Brian Branch had to leave the team’s win against the Arizona Cardinals following a frightening collision that left him motionless on the field. The team later confirmed that he had sustained a neck injury.

Branch was injured while tackling Cardinals tight end Trey McBride during the fourth quarter of Detroit’s 20-13 victory on September 22. Both players lowered their helmets before the hit, resulting in a hard collision that left them both on the ground.

Branch was able to walk off the field with assistance from the team’s medical staff. The Lions later reported that he had suffered a neck injury.

A Concerning Moment for Brian Branch

Although no further details about Branch’s injury were immediately provided, there was speculation that the second-year defensive back could have suffered a concussion.

Some also questioned if McBride should have been penalized for targeting, as he appeared to lower his helmet during the hit.

One fan shared on X (formerly Twitter), “Is McBride lowering his helmet into Brian Branch not targeting? Is it a defensive-only penalty now?”

Both players were injured in the collision, and the Cardinals later announced that McBride was being evaluated for a concussion.

The Lions secured their victory thanks to strong defensive play, particularly in the secondary. They limited quarterback Kyler Murray to 207 passing yards, completing 21 of 34 passes, with one touchdown and one interception.

Before his injury, Branch was playing well. As noted by Quarter4, he had recorded nine tackles (six solo), including one for a loss, and had defended two passes. His performance helped hold Arizona’s offense to just 13 points and under 300 yards late into the game. Detroit’s active safeties on Sunday were Brandon Joseph and Loren Strickland.

Injuries Plague the Lions

Branch wasn’t the only Lions player injured during Sunday’s game. Linebacker Derrick Barnes and defensive tackle Alim McNeill were both ruled out in the first half. Tight end Sam LaPorta also exited later with an ankle injury.

LaPorta returned briefly in the third quarter but limped off after blocking on a play. He was benched with an ice pack on his right ankle and was listed as questionable to return. Backup Brock Wright took over for him.

LaPorta finished the game with two catches for 36 yards on two targets and has totaled eight catches for 94 yards over the first three games of the season.