League: NFL Sport: Football Country: United States Category: Injuries

Dan Campbell clarifies Kerby Joseph's return timeline for Lions

2 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 22, 2026, 1:33 PM

Last updated Sep 22, 2026

Dan Campbell clarifies Kerby Joseph's return timeline for Lions

Summary

Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell announced that safety Kerby Joseph is not yet ready to return from his knee injury. Campbell emphasized the importance of health over rushing Joseph back into action, even as the Lions face defensive challenges following the loss of Avonte Maddox. Both Joseph and Brian Branch are eligible to return in Week 5, but Campbell confirmed neither will practice this week. The Lions added Jalen Mills to their practice squad to bolster depth while waiting for Joseph's recovery.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Status Watch

•Kerby Joseph is sidelined due to a knee injury.
•Dan Campbell prioritizes Joseph's health over immediate play.
•Joseph and Brian Branch are eligible to return in Week 5.
•Jalen Mills has joined the practice squad for depth.
•Joseph will not practice this week as he continues recovery.

Latest Updates

1:33 PMYahoo Sports — Dan Campbell on Kerby Joseph: We're trying to get him back, but he's not ready
12:55 PMYahoo Sports — Dan Campbell Makes Lions’ Plan for Kerby Joseph Crystal Clear

What they're saying

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The Lions have struggled in the secondary through the first two weeks of the season and part of the reason why they're having a hard time is the absence of safeties Brian Branch and Kerby Joseph.
— Yahoo Sports