Unfortunately, a significant injury sabotaged most of his 2025 season and became one of the major losses to the Lions’ defense.

The Injury - Hamstring strain (September 28, 2025)

In Week 4 of the season, Reed went down with a severe-looking hamstring and was carted off.

The severity of the strain was moderate-high and threatened the rest of his season. Fortunately, no season-ending surgery was needed, and Reed was able to heal naturally.

After missing six games, he returned to play the final seven games. However, he didn’t look like his normal self during those games.

In total, Reed played in 11 games in 2025 and finished with two interceptions and seven passes defensed.

Post-season Recovery

Reed revealed that he underwent stem cell treatments in Panama during the 2026 offseason to aide his recovery. See my Stem Cell Treatment Analysis for reasons why this treatment is unlikely to have made an impact.

More likely, what has helped his recovery is simply having a full offseason to rest and rehab. Video during the the Lions OTA in June shows him opening up the throttle in trying to catch Jameson Williams…

Outlook for 2026

Recovery from his hamstring appears to have gone very well, and Reed looks ready to regain his previous form as a #1 CB. Given the major uncertainties with the rest of the secondary, the Lions really need a healthy Reed.

With hamstrings, there is a chance of recurrence though, so that will be something to monitor with DJ Reed throughout the season.

For #9 on the Top 10 Injury News of 2025…

The unrequited hope of pass rushing help is why Davenport’s injury claims a spot in the Top 10 Lions Injury News of the 2025 Season.

The Injury - Right shoulder vs pec (September 14, 2025)

Unfortunately, it only took until Week 2 for the fears to become founded as Davenport went down with a significant injury.

The injury was initially listed as a shoulder, and then changed to a chest, and later back to a shoulder again. There was a report that he had a pec strain which would fit a “chest” designation.

The curious, fluctuating, body-part listing made me suspect that there were two separate issues going on - a pec and a shoulder.

The Rest of The Season

After missing nine games and returning in Week 13 (November 27), Davenport would intermittently exhibit residual discomfort the rest of the season. It doesn’t appear he ever fully recovered.

Here is a video from Week 16 (December 21) where his right shoulder appears to be bothering him:

Davenport finished the 2025 season having played in eight games. He recorded just one sack, one TFL, and three QB hits.

Current Status

The Lions have since moved on from Davenport by adding a low medical concern Derrick Moore in the second round of the draft, along with multiple free agents like DJ Wonnum.

Currently, Davenport remains an unsigned free agent, and his health and reliability concerns are a major reason for that.

For #10 of the Lions Top 10 Injury News of 2025…

The Injury - Concussion with seizure (August 8, 2025)

Norris’ suspected injury diagnosis was a concussion that caused loss of consciousness, fencing posture, and approximately 30 seconds of convulsions or seizure activity in at least his legs.

Here is the full sequence video…

Initial Treatment & Evaluation

Credit to the Falcons medical team on the near sideline who recognized the situation immediately and rushed to aide. The emergency action plan was activated within seconds, and Norris was placed on a spine board as a precaution.

Within about a minute, he regained consciousness on the field and was responsive. He was transported via ambulance to the hospital. The disturbing nature of the injury caused the game to be suspended.

At the hospital, Norris likely got a CT scan of his head which is good initial test to rule out any emergent issues like a brain bleed or skull fracture. While the cause of the seizure was directly related to the concussion, Norris likely had tests done to rule out any other secondary causes of seizure activity. This would include blood and urine testing to check for electrolyte abnormalities, signs of infection, and kidney/liver function. A cardiac evaluation including an EKG may have been done to rule out any underlying heart issue.

An MRI of his head may have been done as well. The MRI can detect things that a CT can not, such as subtle bleeds, tumors, or blood vessel abnormalities which could all cause seizures.

The Day After

Norris was discharged from the hospital the next day, which is a sign that there were no unstable concerns with his health. Multiple social media posts showed him alert and communicative with teammates which further confirmed the lack of severe concerns.

Short-Term Outcome

Norris returned to the team within a few days and was seen on the practice field in pads within two weeks. All signs suggested a full recovery.

From a football perspective, he was waived at final roster cuts with the concussion possibly being a factor.

His NFL career is uncertain going forward. He did not play in the NFL during the 2025 season and is currently unsigned as a free agent.

Long-Term Outlook

The data isn’t definitive, but a seizure in the immediate seconds after a concussion seems unlikely to result in long-term seizure problems based on multiple studies - including this one by McCrory et al on 22 rugby players.

However, other studies (like Ritter et al) suggest there might be a slightly increased risk of epilepsy (recurrent seizures).

If Norris had any more seizures in the coming days or weeks, his risk of epilepsy would significantly increase. There have been no reports that this was the case.

The Bottom Line

While the seizure activity on the field was scary to witness, there are unlikely to be any long-term sequelae for Morice Norris. Hopefully, he will get a chance to continue his NFL career if he chooses.

Recently, Reed revealed that he had stem cell treatment in Panama for his hamstring injury. By all accounts, he is feeling and looking great in his recovery from his hamstring. However, it’s unlikely that stem cells can be credited.

I discussed the reasons previously in PRP & Stem Cell Treatment: Hype vs Reality. There are studies that suggest that PRP might shorten NFL hamstring recovery by one game, but evidence is weak. The studies on stem cells for hamstrings is even more hard to find.

A reason why pro athletes might attempt these treatments is because the risks are low. The most common side effect is temporary pain and swelling of the injection site - found in about 12%. Major side effects like infection, immune reaction, clots, and tumors are possible but very unlikely.

The main barrier to these treatments is the financial cost and the hassle of flying to other countries, as many of these treatments are not legal in the USA. For many NFL players, the potential reward outweighs the costs and minor risks.

NFL vs non-NFL recovery timelines

This is a fascinating question by The Watcher. There are many reasons why an NFL player’s recovery period would be shorter than a normal civilian’s.

• NFL players are in their athletic age prime, while civilians may not be.

• Comorbidities (associated health problems) like diabetes, cardiovascular issues, obesity, etc. will slow healing. NFL players rarely have these kinds of problems.

• The timeline goals of an NFL player are completely different compared to a typical job. NFL players get paid for 17 games per calendar year and there is a huge urgency to be available for those games. Most other jobs don’t have that kind of time urgency. The short and rigid work season of the NFL will affect rehab aggressiveness.

• NFL players’ job is to rest and rehab. There is no other job getting in the way of that. This isn’t true for most people who may often have to work through - and subsequently aggravate - an injury.

• NFL players are able to get imaging tests done and surgeries scheduled much faster than the general population. Thus, they can get a headstart on recovery.

• NFL players have the money and access to every possible rehabilitation device and technique. Whether this actually matters is debatable.

These are just some of the factors why an NFL player’s recovery will be faster on average than a normal “civilian”. Which factors actually makes a difference? Don’t expect any definitive answers as performing a quality study that controls for these variables would be borderline impossible and potentially unethical.

If you have any thoughts on why NFL players may recover faster than the rest of us, leave a comment below.

Leave a comment

Brendan Sorsby heads to NFL supplemental draft

After weeks of will-he-or-won’t-he play another year of college football, Sorsby is (for now) heading into the NFL supplemental draft. Some have wondered if the Lions should take a swing given the team’s need for a long-term backup QB.

When asked about Sorsby in a recent minicamp press conference, Dan Campbell responded:

All I can tell you is that we look at everything. Brad looks at everything, so nothing is off the docket, so our eyes are open.

This generic, media-friendly answer tells us nothing either way. But I don’t think the Lions will have any interest in Sorsby. Part of the reason is the position he plays.

Here is what I wrote in my Brendan Sorsby Gambling Analysis article back in May:

The Lions have been dealing with player unreliability due to injury the past couple years, and have addressed that this offseason by adding cleaner, healthier players - detailed in my Lions Offseason Health Review.

Sorsby may not have a typical football “injury”, but his addiction presents major reliability concerns similar to any chronic injury. Thus, he would not be a good fit for the Lions’ current roster philosophy.

As far as other NFL teams, there are media reports suggesting Sorsby could be taken in the 1st or 2nd round of the supplemental draft. I’m dubious about that and would be surprised to see any team give up more than a very late-round pick for Sorsby. In fact, I think there’s a very good chance he goes undrafted. If I’m a NFL general manager, I would not want to add this kind of risk and headache at any cost.

All four of these UFL WR’s are suspected to be competing for a returner spot - one that may have originally been earmarked for 5th-rounder Kendrick Law, who was lost with an ACL.

There is an increased importance of kickoff returns with the new rules - evidenced by the 74.5% return rate in 2025. Finding a playmaking returner could easily swing a game or two during the season. Don’t be surprised to see the Lions continue to churn through returner options until they find one they like.

Keys is the youngest of the four recently-signed UFL WR’s at just age 26, and he has an extensive display of punt and kickoff returns during the 2026 UFL season. He might also be the smallest at 5’ 9” and 175 lbs.

What may hinder Keys’ chances is he carries the highest medical concern level of these four UFL receivers. And while the other three have some NFL game experience, Keys has none.

Below is the medical report for Lawrence Keys. For a full breakdown of all the 2026 free agents, visit my Detroit Lions 2026 Free Agency Page.

Medical concern level ranges from 0 (no concern) to 10 (extreme).

(Ages in parentheses are at start of 2026 season and are factored into the concern level. Injury info and ages based on available public information and are unverified - subject to update. Games played data courtesy of sports-reference.com.)

Lawrence Keys, WR (26)

Medical Concern Level: 5/10

• 2026 (Gamblers): 10/10 games played.

• 2025 (Gamblers): 8 games. Possible ankle/foot injury landed him on IR.

• 2024 (Bills): Foot injury and waived.

• 2023 College (Tulane): Sprained foot.

• 2020: Concussion.

Credit Dr. Kyle Trimble at BangedUpBills.com for hard-to-find injury details on Keys.

Keys appears to have a recurrent history of foot injuries over the past three years, which raises significant reliability concerns. There are no specific diagnoses, which means we don’t know if these are recurrent issues or separate injuries. The severity of injuries is also hard to assess for fringe roster players since they can get injury waived partially for skill reasons.

On the positive side, Keys had a healthy 2026 season in the UFL. Also, his age is young and provides long-term upside.

In the 2026 UFL season with the Houston Gamblers, Keys caught 24 balls for 349 yards. On punt returns, he had 11 with an 11.2 yard average. On kickoff returns, he had 19 with a 27.3 yard average. All this recent return experience could give him a leg up in the competition to make the Lions’ roster.

Overall, the news was stable - players who were expected to see an upgrade have done so, while players who were not expected to participate have remained that way.

Brian Branch, S

• Injury status: Right Achilles rupture (December 4, 2025)

• Pre-minicamp expectations: No practice. But there is a chance that Branch could do some rehab work on the side.

• Minicamp outcome: No practice and no visible workouts.

Here is minicamp video shot by @colton_pouncy where you can see Branch and Joseph walking off:

As a keen-eyed reader noted, there appears to be atrophy of Branch’s right calf.

We’ve seen this kind of leg atrophy recently with Aidan Hutchinson (tib/fib) and Derrick Barnes (MCL/PCL). It’s expected and I’m not overly concerned about it. Once he starts doing his jumping/sprinting workouts, the muscle will regain quickly.

The concern is we have yet to see him doing any of these kinds of workouts yet. That means don’t expect an early return in time for the start of the season.

Kerby Joseph, S

• Injury status: Left knee injury with last game appearance on October 12, 2025

• Pre-minicamp expectations: No practice.

• Minicamp outcome: No practice.

No good news, but also nothing unexpected for Joseph, as mileage management is the consistent theme. After 10-months to recover, we’ll know one way or another once he tests his knee in training camp.

Regarding training camp practice, Lions’ safety coach Jim O’Neil stated: “You can't take a year off football and expect to go play at an All-Pro level. Does he need to do it every day? Probably not."

Nobody knows how Joseph’s knee is going to respond to starting football activities again. I think the coaches are praying for the best, but fully prepared for the worst.

Sam LaPorta, TE

• Injury status: Herniated disc surgery (November 2025)

• Pre-minicamp expectations: Walk/jog-throughs.

• Minicamp outcome: Walk-throughs.

LaPorta should gradually ramp up in training camp. The concern is if his spine will get aggravated again once he starts full-contact work. Repeated hyperextension of the back can cause problems - as explained in my Sam LaPorta spine analysis.

Ennis Rakestraw, CB

• Injury status: Illness (June 2026)

• Pre-minicamp expectations: Likely full participation.

• Minicamp outcome: Full participation.

Continued good news so far this offseason for Rakestraw who has been fully healthy throughout. Next hurdle will be to get through training camp healthy. It was last training camp when Rakestraw hurt his shoulder and needed season-ending surgery.

Dan Campbell doesn’t plan on dialing down the training camp intensity, so Rakestraw will be tested.

Terrion Arnold, CB

• Injury status: Two shoulder surgeries (December 2025)

• Pre-minicamp expectations: Limited practices as precaution.

• Minicamp outcome: Participated.

Arnold stated: “Entering camp, obviously I want to be 100%, but right now I would say I’m at about 75 - 80%.“ Entering his third season, this is a big year for Arnold to prove himself as a solid starting CB. Health will be a big factor after shoulder surgeries and a concussion last year.

Rock Ya-Sin, CB

• Injury status: Illness (June 2026)

• Pre-minicamp expectations: Likely full participation.

• Minicamp outcome: Full participation.

After demonstrating 100% availability last season, Ya-Sin may be counted on again given the frequency of Lion CB injuries the past couple years.

Tyler Conklin, TE

• Injury status: Unknown

• Pre-minicamp expectations: Uncertain.

• Minicamp outcome: Did not practice.

Uncertain what is going on with Conklin after missing the final week of OTA and minicamp. The Lions will need reliable TE depth given the the durability concerns of Sam LaPorta’s spine.

Teddy Bridgewater, QB

• Injury status: Unknown

• Pre-minicamp expectations: Uncertain.

• Minicamp outcome: Participated.

Good to see Bridgewater back after a brief absence. Jared Goff has been extremely reliable, but you just never know when the backup QB will be needed.

Ben Bartch, OG

• Injury status: Lisfranc surgery (December 2025)

• Pre-minicamp expectations: No practice.

• Minicamp outcome: No practice.

Dan Campbell sounds confident Bartch will be ready for training camp, but the lack of practice throughout OTA and minicamp introduces doubt. Bartch’s Lisfranc merited him a 9/10 medical concern level upon signing.

DJ Reed, CB

• Injury: Left hamstring (September 2025)

• Pre-minicamp expectations: Full practice.

• Minicamp outcome: Full practice.

All indications are that Reed looks physically great this offseason in his recovery from his hamstring. Jeff Risdon raved about Reed in his minicamp video review. The Lions really need Reed to lock down the #1 CB spot given the many ongoing injury concerns of the secondary.

Below are the medical reports for Jackson, Black, and Martin. (Keys will show up in a future report since he was a later signing.) What is the common link of these three new signings? They are all veteran WR’s in their late 20’s, and they may all be in competition for a single returner position.

Given that these players have been in and out of the NFL, publicly reported injury information is going to be scant. For a full breakdown of the 2026 free agency, visit my Lions Free Agency 2026 Page.

Medical concern level ranges from 0 (no concern) to 10 (extreme).

(Ages in parentheses are at start of 2026 season and are factored into the concern level. Injury info and ages based on available public information and are unverified - subject to update. Games played data courtesy of sports-reference.com.)

Lucky Jackson, WR (29)

Medical Concern Level: 0/10

• 2023 (Vikings): 3 games played.

I found no reported injuries for Jackson. His pro career mainly involves bouncing around to various CFL and XFL teams, with a brief stint in the NFL. His college history shows good reliability in his four years at Western Kentucky.

There isn’t anything to be concerned about from a medical standpoint except for his age which is approaching 30.

In 2026 with the UFL Louisville Knights, Jackson had a highly productive season with 38 receptions for 440 yards. He added 13 punt returns with an 11.8 yards per return average.

Tarik Black, WR (28)

Medical Concern Level: 2/10

• 2024: Waived with hamstring injury.

• 2021 (Jets): 1 game played.

• 2018 College (Michigan): Right foot fracture

• 2017: Left foot fracture

Two foot fractures in college is notable for Black, but he’s been generally healthy since then. It’s unknown the exact type of foot fractures, but a common one is a Jones fracture. There is some concern of a recurrence if he earns an increased workload with the Lions.

His NFL career involves many short stays with various teams, with minimal game experience.

In 2026 with the UFL Louisville Knights, Black had an excellent year with 31 receptions for 459 yards.

Tay Martin, WR (28)

Medical Concern Level: 0/10

• 2025 (Commanders): 3 games played. Hamstring injury prior to the season.

• 2024 (Titans): 1 game.

• 2023 (49ers): 1 game

• 2022 (49ers): 2 games

Other than a hamstring injury last year, Martin appears to be clean. He was able to return from the hamstring to play three NFL games along with the UFL season, so there isn’t any concern here.

In his five-year college career at Oklahoma State and Washington State, Martin was generally reliable having played in 13 games in 4 of 5 seasons.

Martin has a fair amount of NFL game experience over the past few seasons, which might give him a leg up in the competition.

In 2026 with the UFL, Martin led the Columbus Aviators with 42 receptions for 483 yards.

Here are some of Dan Campbell’s quotes from his two press conferences on June 16 and June 17, 2026, along with my analysis.

Current injury updates

Nobody new.

We got some guys back that were sick - Rock & Rakestraw.

The best news out of minicamp is the lack of any surprise injury news. Even in non-contact practices, injuries like ACL and Achilles can happen. So far, Kendrick Law’s ACL is the only major injury this offseason.

Lions’ roster makeup compared to last season

We’re younger than we were. There’s good things about the youth. And then there’s things we’re going to have to work through.

The roster management theme this offseason has been pretty obvious - the Lions are looking to get younger and healthier in an effort to decrease injuries.

I documented the dramatic changes in the roster in my article, Lions Offseason Health Review: Additions vs Subtractions…

Training camp intensity philosophy

We’re going to push it. That’s what we do. But we’ll do it smart.

There is a chance we play some of these guys in the preseason without joint practices.

We can’t break them in training camp. You can’t let fear of injury scare you away from what you believe in.

There has been debate about the intensity of the Lions’ practices and if it contributes to injury. Campbell implies that not much is going to change as far as training camp intensity. That probably means the Lions will continue to do “live” tackling in camp.

Is training camp intensity going to be a problem? In my Training Camp 2025-2024 Injury Analysis, I found that live tackling in training camp was not a major problem…

Based on my analysis of the past two training camps, Campbell seems on solid ground as far as maintaining the current level of training camp intensity.

Sam LaPorta status

Walk-throughs.

We like where he’s going. He’s trending the right way.

LaPorta is seven months post herniated disc surgery. While it is a bit disappointing that LaPorta was not a full-go in OTA and minicamp, the good news is that there appear to have been no setbacks. His status will be one of the most important to watch during training camp.

Ben Bartch status

We get Bartch back who will be ready to go for training camp.

Batch missed OTA and minicamp in recovery from his Lisfranc surgery in December 2025. Campbell seems confident he’ll be ready by training camp, but Lisfranc’s can have a tricky, uncertain recovery. The left guard position appears to be Christian Mahogany’s to lose, but it’s always good to have competition and quality backups.

Today, let’s review 13 players who are fully active, but still have lingering question marks coming off significant injuries. How well they can regain their previous form is still up in the air, and will be a major determinant of the success of the Lions’ season.

These players are ranked starting with the most medically concerning for the 2026 season.

#1 Thomas Harper, S

• Injury: Two concussions (December 2025)

As you can see in the injury videos, both of Harper’s concussions have the same mechanism - lowering his head and taking a leg to the right side of his helmet. There are multiple concerns moving forward:

1. A possible lowered concussion threshold.

2. A prolonged absence with the next concussion.

3. The need to change his tackling technique which could decrease his effectiveness.

Look for Harper to focus on a heads-up tackling technique during practice.

#2 Ennis Rakestraw, CB

• Injury: Shoulder surgery (August 2025)

This third-year CB gets the dubious distinction of being on both Part 1 (current illness) and Part 2 (shoulder) of the minicamp watchlist.

After two straight seasons marred by injuries, Rakestraw has reportedly added some bulk to his frame to help deal with the physical nature of the NFL.

#3 Levi Onwuzurike, DT

• Injury: ACL surgery (~May 2025)

After signing a 1-year free agent deal with $3.5M guaranteed in the 2025 offseason, Onwuzurike underwent ACL surgery about a month later. The curious timing of how that played out made me question the Lions’ interest in retaining him after his contract tolled.

The fact that the Lions are giving him a chance means that the ACL recovery must be going smoothly. However, there can be a lag in full recovery from an ACL, which might make the difference between Levi making the roster or not.

#4 Giovanni Manu, OL

• Injury: Knee (October 2025)

A practice knee injury wiped out the rest of Manu’s 2025 season. There are no details regarding the knee injury, but residuals are always a possibility - especially if cartilage was involved. Entering his third year, this could be make-or-break time for him.

#5 Malcolm Rodriguez, LB

• Injury: Right ACL (November 2024)

A follow-up surgery delayed Rodriguez’s ACL return to the 12-month mark. This raises concern for residuals like cartilage damage.

While he played sparingly in the final seven games of 2025, his defensive snaps nicely ramped up in the final two games - a good sign heading into the 2026 season.

#6 DJ Reed, CB

• Injury: Left hamstring (September 2025)

Reed missed six games with this hamstring, and appeared to struggle a bit when he returned for the final seven games. To aide his hamstring recovery, Reed stated he received stem cell treatment in Panama this offseason. However, it’s unlikely that treatment made much of a difference - explained in my PRP & Stem Cell Video.

Having a full offseason to rest and rehab is what has allowed him to be in a much better physical place heading into 2026.

#7 Colby Sorsdal, OL

Read more

Today, in Part 1 of the minicamp watchlist, are 10 players who were limited or out at the end of OTA due to various maladies. These players are ranked starting with the most likely to get an upgrade in health status.

Tomorrow, Part 2 will focus on players who are fully active after recovering from significant injury, but carry lingering question marks - like Alim McNeill, Malcolm Rodriguez, DJ Reed, and Thomas Harper.

#1 Ennis Rakestraw, CB

• Injury status: Illness (June 2026)

• Minicamp expectations: Likely full participation.

After shoulder surgery in August 2025, this 3rd-year CB has been healthy this offseason... until a minor illness kept him out in the final week of OTA.

#2 Rock Ya-Sin, CB

• Injury status: Illness (June 2026)

• Minicamp expectations: Likely full participation.

This 30-year-old CB came through huge last season, and may need to be ready to do so again. He’s had a healthy offseason except for a minor illness in the final week of OTA.

#3 Tyler Conklin, TE

• Injury status: Unknown

• Minicamp expectations: Uncertain.

This soon to be 31-year-old TE was not present at the end of OTA for unknown reasons. A routine contagious illness that affected multiple other Lions is a pretty good possibility.

Conklin’s medical report reveals him to be very healthy and reliable in his career, which is probably why the Lions targeted him as a free agent.

#4 Teddy Bridgewater, QB

• Injury status: Unknown

• Minicamp expectations: Uncertain.

It’s uncertain why Bridgewater was missing at the end of OTA. His medical report had no medical concerns heading into this season, but his age (33) is starting to creep up.

This grizzled veteran doesn’t need much practice time, if any. In 2024, he skipped almost the entire season, but still played in the Lions playoff game vs the Commanders and completed all his passes (ok, just 1 for 1).

#5 Terrion Arnold, CB

• Injury status: Two shoulder surgeries (December 2025)

• Minicamp expectations: Limited practices as precaution.

The shoulder should be mostly recovered by now. Arnold had some limited practices at OTA which is a good sign that he is on track to start the season.

#6 Ben Bartch, OG

• Injury status: Lisfranc surgery (December 2025)

• Minicamp expectations: No practice.

According to Dan Campbell, Bartch is still recovering from a season-ending Lisfranc surgery, which is why he did not practice in OTA. While the absence may be precautionary, it’s still worth watching.

Lisfranc recoveries can carry uncertainty - as explained in my Bartch Medical Report where I gave him a 9/10 medical concern level.

#7 Sam LaPorta, TE

• Injury status: Herniated disc surgery (November 2025)

• Minicamp expectations: Walk/jog-throughs.

LaPorta was limited to jog-throughs at OTA. There isn’t much reason to aggravate the spine before the season, even though he might be able to play a game right now.

He should be ready for the start of the season as he heads into the final year of his contract. However, durability will be a concern - as explained in my Sam LaPorta Postseason Analysis.

#8 Brian Branch, S

• Injury status: Right Achilles rupture (December 4, 2025)

• Minicamp expectations: No practice. But there is a chance that Branch could do some rehab work on the side.

Branch is over six months post Achilles and did not practice in OTA. He posted some low-level rehab work recently on social media. His rehab workouts should be ramping up to sprints and jumping soon, if not already.

Dan Campbell squashed the dreams of an early return in September. Mid-season is more realistic.

#9 Kerby Joseph, S

• Injury status: Left knee injury with last game appearance on October 12, 2025

• Minicamp expectations: No practice.

Joseph is in mileage-preservation mode right now, which is why he did not practice throughout OTA. This is consistent with the suspected diagnosis of articular cartilage damage - detailed in Part 2 of the Kerby Joseph Knee Analysis.

As Dan Campbell stated during OTA, we won’t see him do anything strenuous until training camp at the earliest.

#10 Kendrick Law, WR

• Injury status: ACL (June 2, 2026)

• Minicamp expectations: Out until 2027 OTA.

The only major injury to the team so far this offseason has been to this 5th-round rookie WR. While it’s a long 10-11 month recovery, it shouldn’t have a significant impact to the rest of his career.

• Major injuries at OTA

• Injury absences at OTA

• Player health updates from Dan Campbell

• Rookie participation photo tracker

But first, let’s compare my Lions Pre-OTA Watchlist expectations to what actually went down.

Kerby Joseph, S - left knee

Pre-OTA expectations: Minimal to no strenuous activity (jumping, cutting, sprinting) for Joseph during OTA’s so as to preserve his knee for real games.

OTA results: No activity for Joseph. Not good news, but tracks with expectations.

Brian Branch, S - Achilles

Pre-OTA expectations: No football activities for Branch, but hopefully we see him doing rehab work on the side.

OTA results: No activity at all for Branch, which is a slight disappointment. He was seen on the practice field but not doing anything.

Sam LaPorta, TE - herniated disc

Pre-OTA expectations: There is a pretty good chance LaPorta is available to do everything at OTA’s, although he may be limited as a precaution. If he is not doing anything at OTA, then the concern level will rise.

Pre-OTA expectations: Jog-throughs only for LaPorta. While a slight disappointment, it keeps him on track to be ready for the season.

Malcolm Rodriguez, LB - ACL

Pre-OTA expectations: Full activity for Rodriguez.

OTA results: Full participation for Rodriguez - a good sign for a bounceback year from 2024 ACL.

Dan Jackson, S - leg

Pre-OTA expectations: Jackson should be able to participate fully.

OTA results: Full participation for Jackson. No signs of concern after missing last season with an unspecified “leg” injury.

Ennis Rakestraw, CB - shoulder

Pre-OTA expectations: Rakestraw should participate fully.

OTA results: Full participation for Rakestraw. So far, it’s been a healthy offseason after shoulder surgery last August.

New Major Injuries at OTA

Fortunately, there was only a single major injury to come out of OTA…

Kendrick Law’s ACL on June 2, 2026

Here is his last picture on May 29…

Law should be ready to go by 2027 OTA.

Lions OTA Participation Notes

• Kerby Joseph, S - No practice.

• Brian Branch, S - No practice.

• Ben Bartch, OG - No practice, related to Lisfranc surgery.

• Sam LaPorta, TE - Limited to walk/jog-throughs only.

• Terrion Arnold, CB - Limited practice.

• Zach Horton, TE - Possibly no practice in Week 1, but returned in Week 2.

• Miles Kitselman, TE - Possibly no practice in Week 2, but returned in Week 3.

• Kendrick Law, WR - ACL tear in Week 2.

• Tyler Conklin, TE - Possibly no practice in Week 3.

• Teddy Bridgewater, QB - Possibly no practice in Week 3.

• Ennis Rakestraw, CB - Missed time in Week 3 with minor illness.

• Rock Ya-Sin, CB - Missed time Week 3 with minor illness.

Dan Campbell OTA Injury Updates

Here are the bottom-line takeaways of Campbell’s comments on individual players during his OTA press conferences.

Read more

Here are some select quotes from Campbell with my read-between-the-lines analysis:

Minor “bug” for Rakestraw, Ya-Sin, & others

There’s a bug that’s kind of hit a few of our guys.

Fortunately, there were no new major injuries revealed by Dan Campbell. The only major injury of the offseason has been to 5th-rounder Kendrick Law (ACL).

Ennis Rakestraw

He’s been out there every day. He’s added a little bit of bulk. He’s a little more dense than he was.

There’s nothing that would tell me that he won’t be physically prepared to go into training camp.

This 3rd-year CB has been a full participant in OTA, so there is no surprise that he will enter training camp at a full-go. It’s good to hear that the wiry Rakestraw has added some mass, which may help him absorb contact better and stay healthy.

DJ Wonnum

I like where Wonnum’s at. He was coming off that injury. Hasn’t missed a day with us. He’s doing a good job.

It’s uncertain what injury Campbell is referring to, but it’s likely the left quad surgery in 2023 that resulted in severe complications of MRSA and DVT - detailed in my DJ Wonnum Medical Report.

Wonnum has proven his health since then by playing half the season in 2024 and only missing a single game (hip) in 2025. Thus, there wasn’t much concern heading into 2026.

In the above OTA picture via DetroitLions.com, you can see a left leg sleeve on Wonnum #98 which would support the theory that it’s the left quad that is a residual concern.

Ben Bartch’s absence

He is much more precautionary. We anticipate him being ready for training camp.

Campbell confirmed that Bartch’s absence in OTA is related to his season-ending Lisfranc injury and surgery. This does raise concern for his availability this coming season, but Campbell sounded confident that Bartch will be ready. The Lions gave Bartch $330K guaranteed as a free agent implying some confidence in his health.

Brian Branch’s chances to start the season

I guess there’s always a chance. I’m going to just go ahead and widen the window. So we don’t have to talk about it anymore.

[jokingly] Let’s just go ahead and say December and then anything before that is a bonus. That way you don’t have to ask me.

There’s no setbacks with him.

Based on Campbell’s response, Branch is not expected to be ready for the start of the season, which is 9 months post Achilles. We have yet to see Branch doing any sprinting or jumping workouts, which is further evidence that he won’t be making an early return. A 10-11 month return-to-play is more reasonable.

Expect Branch to start training camp on PUP and likely stay on it into the regular season. An October return might be best-case scenario.

Branch’s possible contract extension

“You always want to know your guys are healthy and this is truly healed. You’re always going to lean that way knowing the investment that will go into that.”

This statement gives a glimpse into what the Lions are thinking regarding extensions for Brian Branch and Sam LaPorta. If the team is waiting for proof of recovery before considering an extension, then don’t expect an extension to happen before the start of the season for either player.

Late season might be the earliest when an extension might happen for Branch. LaPorta should be ready for Game 1 and thus could prove his recovery earlier. However, there are significant durability concerns for LaPorta going forward given the nature of his disc injury.

Both LaPorta and Branch may end up playing out their final year, and then become free agents or get tagged in the offseason.

For the detailed analysis of why Sam LaPorta’s spinal disc carries residual concerns…

I dug into my podcast archives and found the above video clip I recorded in October 2024 where I discussed the data behind PRP and stem cells. Nothing has changed my stance since then.

Why might Kerby Joseph seek this treatment?

The hope is the treatment will help with the symptoms of knee cartilage damage. See my story below for more details on what might be going on with Joseph’s knee…

What is the bottom line for PRP & stem cells?

Unfortunately, the bottom line is that the evidence for PRP & stem cells is weak at best. There may be no effect beyond placebo. Even if there is an effect, the benefit is modest and is nowhere near a magic cure for conditions like cartilage loss, degenerative knee, and arthritis.

Read Part 1 of my Kerby Joseph knee injury analysis for the complete injury timeline…

Lions Offseason Schedule

• OTA: June 9-11

• Mandatory minicamp: June 16-17

Lions OTA Participation Update

• Kerby Joseph, S - No practice in Week 1 & 2 OTA.

• Brian Branch, S - No practice in Week 1 & 2 OTA.

• Sam LaPorta, TE - Walk/jog-throughs in Week 1 & 2 OTA.

• Terrion Arnold, CB - No practice in Week 1 of OTA. Practiced in Week 2.

• Ben Bartch, OG - Likely no practice in Week 1 & 2.

• Zach Horton, TE - Possibly no practice in Week 1. Practiced in Week 2.

• Miles Kitselman, TE - Possibly no practice in Week 2.

• Kendrick Law, WR - ACL tear in Week 2.

Kerby Joseph, S

Left knee injury with last game appearance on October 12, 2025

The lack of participation in OTA was fully expected given the nature of his knee issue - suspected by me and reported by Dave Birkett to be a cartilage issue, as discussed previously in Kerby Joseph Knee Injury Analysis - Part 2.

OTA Week 3 expectations: No practice.

Brian Branch, S

Achilles rupture - December 4, 2025

At 6 months post Achilles, players can be doing controlled sprinting, jumping, and cutting. We have yet to see video of Branch doing that yet.

I’m slightly disappointed that there have been no reports of him working out on the side in OTA. Is this a concern? Probably not, but it might make an early return in September less likely.

OTA Week 3 expectations: No practice.

Sam LaPorta, TE

Herniated disc surgery - November 2025

LaPorta has been doing just walk and jog-throughs at OTA. This is likely (hopefully?) just precautionary to ensure no setbacks. He should ramp up during training camp.

OTA Week 3 expectations: Jog-throughs at best.

Terrion Arnold, CB

Two shoulder surgeries - December 2025

After missing Week 1, Arnold returned for Week 2. His participation at OTA was expected based on his earlier workout videos, and it was good to see confirmation of his recovery.

OTA Week 3 expectations: Participates at least in limited fashion.

Ben Bartch, OG

Lisfranc surgery - December 2025

Bartch may have missed the first two weeks of OTA. While we don’t know the reason for the absence, there is concern here.

He had a season-ending Lisfranc injury in 2025. That’s an injury that can be tricky with an uncertain recovery, which is why my medical concern level for him upon signing was at a 9/10.

OTA Week 3 expectations: Uncertain. If he misses the third week of OTA, then red flags will rise.

Miles Kitselman, TE

After participating in Week 1, this UDFA rookie may have missed Week 2 for unknown reasons.

As seen in my Kitselman Medical Report, he had pec surgery in March 2025 and a possible knee injury during the 2025 season. He was still able to play 11 of 13 games including the bowl, so there was minimal cause for concern heading into OTA.

OTA Week 3 expectations: Uncertain.

Kendrick Law, WR

ACL - June 2, 2026

This 5th-round rookie has had the only known major injury so far in OTA.

OTA Week 3 expectations: Out until probably 2027 offseason workouts.

After the sudden loss in OTA of 5th-round WR Kendrick Law to an ACL, the Detroit Lions quickly added Kyre Duplessis as a UDFA (undrafted free agent). At 5’ 11”, 190lbs, he is on the slight side, but may compete as a returner like Law was expected to.

Below is the medical report for Kyre Duplessis. For a full breakdown of the 2026 rookie class, visit my Lions Rookies page.

Medical concern level ranges from 0 (no concern) to 10 (extreme).

(Ages in parentheses are at start of 2026 season and are factored into the concern level. Injury info and ages based on available public information and are unverified - subject to update. Games played data courtesy of sports-reference.com.)

Kyre Duplessis, WR (24) - Delaware

Medical Concern Level: 2/10

• 2025: 13/13 games

• 2024 (Coastal Carolina): 12/13 games

• 2023: 13/13 games

• 2022: 12/13 games

• 2021: 2 games

• 2020: 0 games (redshirt)

Duplessis has been very reliable throughout college, having missed only 2 games in the past 4 years. I was unable to find any reported injuries for him. His medical concern level is bumped up a bit because his age is higher than ideal compared to other rookies.

In college, he finished with 83 receptions for 1172 yards - the vast majority of which came in his final season.

For the initial medical report on Kendrick Law and the rest of the Day 3 picks…

• The big downgrade involves Kendrick Law who suffered an ACL.

• There were nice upgrades with Terrion Arnold and Zach Horton, while Sam LaPorta remains comfortably stable.

Last week, Dan Campbell mentioned that a couple unnamed rookies would be limited at OTA, so I’m tracking which rookies have been featured in pictures by the Lions.

Last week, Blake Miller, Jimmy Rolder, Kendrick Law, and Luke Altmyer were featured in official pictures. This week, we have some more rookies showing up - see who below.

The only drafted rookie who has not shown up in OTA pics so far is Tyre West who was pictured in offseason workouts in May. Media has reported West as participating in OTA, so there is no sign of concern with him.

Lions OTA Participation Update

• Kerby Joseph, S - No practice in Week 1 & 2 OTA.

• Brian Branch, S - No practice in Week 1 & 2 OTA.

• Sam LaPorta, TE - Walk/Jog-throughs in Week 1 & 2 OTA.

• Terrion Arnold, CB - No practice in Week 1 of OTA. Practiced in Week 2.

• Ben Bartch, OG - Likely no practice in Week 1 & 2. Uncertain reason, but my Bartch Medical Report had him at a high medical concern level (9/10) due to a season-ending Lisfranc.

• Zach Horton, TE - Possibly no practice in Week 1. Practiced in Week 2.

• Miles Kitselman, TE - Possibly no practice in Week 2. My Kitselman Medical Report had a couple injuries for him in 2025, but none that should carry over.

• Kendrick Law, WR - ACL tear in Week 2. Expect to be ready for 2027 OTA.

Now for the analysis of pictures posted at DetroitLions.com…

Keith Abney, CB

The Lions’ 5th-round CB was featured in many pics in Week 2 of OTA. He may get a chance to have an important role in 2026 with both Terrion Arnold and Ennis Rakestraw recovering from shoulder surgeries.

Derrick Moore, EDGE

The Lions 2nd-round EDGE has been pictured working out this week, but has yet to be pictured in a football uniform and pads doing OTA activities. Various media have reported him being active at OTA, so hopefully this is just an oversight for a player with extremely high fan interest.

Skyler Gill-Howard, DT

The Lions’ 6th-rounder appears to be on the right side of this picture as the Lions break OTA. Credit @Contrapastan on X for helping to keep track of player presence in pictures and spotting Gill-Howard here. Still no action photos of him yet at OTA, but he was shown in action during offseason workout pictures before. No reason for concern here.

Anthony Lucas, EDGE & DJ Wonnum, EDGE

In the background is UDFA rookie EDGE #61 Anthony Lucas.

In the foreground is DJ Wonnum who is wearing a left leg sleeve. This seems likely related to his left quad surgery in 2023 that resulted in severe complications of MRSA and DVT, as detailed in my DJ Wonnum Medical Report.

DJ Reed, CB - hamstring

It’s great to see Reed at full sprint trying to catch Jamo here. He had a significant hamstring strain last season, and is hoping to not have a recurrence. (Video via @Lions on X)

Amon-Ra St. Brown, WR - knee

ARSB had offseason knee surgery in 2025 and banged up his right knee at the end of the 2025 season, so it’s good to see no precautionary sleeve or wrap on his knees here in 2026. (Video via @Lions on X)

Tate Ratledge, RG - neck?

Ratledge’s glorious rookie mullet continues to be MIA. A reminder that he may have cut his mullet last season because he started wearing a neck roll in Week 10. There were visible symptoms of a possible neck issue at multiple points last season. It’s something to keep an eye on for 2026.

Jahmyr Gibbs utilization for 2026 season

While there is no question that Gibbs is a special talent and the most explosive RB on the roster, my concern lies with over-utilization. Gibbs has been remarkably healthy in his 3-year NFL career, having missed just two games with a hamstring. Spreading out the snap counts will help keep things that way. Isiah Pacheco will be counted on as RB 2, but he has a significant injury history.

It was good to hear new offensive coordinator, Drew Petzing, acknowledge the injury concern with over-utilization earlier this offseason.

Hopefully, Petzing and Campbell are on the same page here.

Kendrick Law suffers ACL tear on June 2, 2026

Dan Campbell delivered the bad news on Law in his press conference.

Law had been featured many times in pictures on the Lions official website, so this news was a surprise stunner. Looking on the bright side, the timing of his ACL gives him a very good chance to be available at 2027 OTA and will definitely have him as a full-go for training camp - barring a very unlikely Jermod McCoy knee situation.

Last year, Alim McNeill returned in about 10 months from his ACL, while Malcolm Rodriguez had a follow-up surgery that delayed his ACL return to 12 months.

Can’t blame the Lions for this one as Law has been with the team just a couple months doing basic workouts.

In fact, the Lions had zero ACL tears in the 2025 season…

DJ Reed hamstring recovery

Reed didn’t quite look like his previous self after returning from his moderate-severe hamstring that cost him six games. With a full offseason to ramp-up, Reed should regain his form.

Dan Campbell’s comments on Kerby Joseph’s knee status

For the detailed analysis of what might be going on with Joseph’s knee, start here…

Here are the key takeaways from Dan Campbell’s statements, which are further confirmation of my concerns from the beginning:

Joseph has yet to fully test the knee, which is why Campbell says he doesn’t know anything for sure. This strategy makes total sense for a wear-and-tear cartilage issue, as I’ve noted many times throughout OTA. There is no value in wasting knee mileage during the offseason.

Unless releasing Kerby this offseason was a consideration for salary cap purposes, there isn’t much point to fully testing the knee until close to the regular season. Give the knee as much rest as possible and pray that it can start handling football activities again.

However, this all assumes that Joseph’s knee is currently asymptomatic with low-level, non-football activities. Joseph may be the only one who has knowledge of this information. If his knee is currently symptomatic, then we have a good idea of how things will go once he fully tests his knee.

What treatments did Kerby Joseph try this offseason?

Campbell offered no specifics on treatment. But it can be assumed that there was no surgical repair/patch performed, which would entail a long multi-month recovery.

This reader is referring to osteochondral allograft (cadaver) or autograft (patient’s own) transplantation, which is a surgical procedure to patch the damaged cartilage with cartilage from elsewhere. There are many reasons why this procedure may not be advisable such as diffuse, generalized cartilage loss or advanced arthritis.

What should we expect in training camp for Kerby Joseph?

Training camp will be about 10 months since Joseph’s last football game on October 12, 2025. That’s more than enough time for “rest/recovery” of a cartilage issue. Anything that could be done, has been done already. If Joseph’s knee flares up after a single practice like it did in December of last year, then that likely signals the end of Joseph’s career. This is what Campbell means when he says “we’ll know one way or another”.

Maybe Joseph tries to tough it out for a little while, but the knee is only going to get worse with playing football. For the sake of his long-term joint health, it would be wise to retire.

Should the Lions have tried to get some answers on Joseph earlier?

If there was a significant salary cap benefit to releasing Joseph this offseason, I think the Lions would have wanted Joseph to test the knee and get some answers earlier.

Since Joseph had just signed his extension in 2025, the salary cap savings may not have been worth it, and the dead cap hit would be oppressive - a whopping $29 million. Although, there was a 2026 option bonus of $9.6M that the Lions maybe could have saved if they released Joseph earlier.

Via Spotrac…

The Lions might have viewed Joseph as a sunk cost for the 2026 season, meaning there wasn’t much reason from a financial perspective to get early answers.

From a roster perspective, I agree that there might have been a benefit to knowing early. However, based on how pessimistic Dan Campbell has appeared in his press conferences, the Lions have already been planning for a future without Kerby. In free agency, the Lions signed multiple veteran safety options - Chuck Clark, Avonte Maddox, Christian Izien.

If the Lions had a 3rd-round pick in the 2026 draft, that may have been a safety selection. Brad Holmes acknowledged he was in the market for a safety in his post-draft press conference…

What is a possible outcome for Kerby Joseph?

Yes, a “medical retirement” similar to what we saw with Jahvid Best and his concussions is a likely outcome if things don’t go well in training camp.

Contractually, Joseph would not retire though. If Joseph just can’t play anymore, the Lions would probably be forced to release him, allowing Joseph to keep all his bonus money. In this situation, I don’t think the Lions would have any claim to clawback money, like they did with Barry Sanders, Calvin Johnson, and Frank Ragnow.

When Kerby’s knee was not able to handle a single practice last December after having rested for two months, I was highly concerned that 2026 would be his final year. Hopefully, the extended rest for Joseph will allow him to continue his career at his formerly high level - even if it’s just on a part-time basis.

Exploring the idea of a Kerby Joseph snap count limitation to help get him through the season…

Should the Lions put Kerby Joseph on a snap count?

I love this idea of putting Kerby Joseph on a limited snap count throughout the season. However, that would require the Lions to change their typical philosophy of playing their starting safeties 100% of snaps.

Joseph’s ability to snag interceptions at a remarkable rate is what makes him the superstar safety that he is. Like a situational EDGE rusher, the Lions could prioritize Joseph for situational passing downs.

If limited snap counts helps him get through a game and the season, it would be worth the experiment. Is he worth his contract as a part-time safety? That question would need to be addressed next offseason. This year is a sunk cost so the Lions will want to be smart about his usage.

As detailed in my Lions Wire Snap Count article from last year, I’ve been in favor of more rotation of players at positions like safety, CB, and LB. The NFL season is long and arduous, so the idea of playing 100% of snaps should be reconsidered.

What is this contraption on Kerby Joseph’s foot?

(Credit @DrLurker6223 on X for the tip.)

This medieval torture-looking device is actually a proprietary FoosFoot designed to strengthen dorsi and plantar flexion of the foot. It can be used for rehab or basic strength training.

It’s unknown if Kerby is actually using this device, or just prepping to be a Game of Thrones expendable extra like his nemesis Aaron Rodgers. Regardless, the benefits of this device would not be directly related to his knee issue.

What is Brian Branch up to in Achilles rehab?

Posted from Dallas Sports Physical Therapy Clinic (athlete.rx.pt Instagram)…

While it’s great to see glimpses of Branch’s rehab, this video provides little to no information about how recovery from his right Achilles rupture is going. The most we see is Branch doing light jogging. It’s a promotional video so there’s not much of substance.

I have no records of Branch with a back issue while with the Lions, so any back work is likely just maintenance. The vast majority of Branch’s health issues have involved his legs.

Is Brian Branch emerging from an alien cocoon?

(Credit @kevin_hls on X for the pic)

While it’s possible Branch is evolving into his final alien form, more likely he is training with a Boost treadmill, which uses an air bubble to offload body weight. It’s a similar concept to underwater rehab.

The hope is to see some cutting, jumping, and sprinting drills soon for Branch, who is 6 months post. For reference, here is a recent video (via @Jones11_) of Bills DE Michael Hoecht who is 7 months post Achilles…

Alim McNeill on his ACL recovery

McNeill met with the media on May 29, 2026 to discuss his ACL recovery. The full interview video can be seen here at DetroitLions.com. Here are some key quotes from McNeill:

ACL recoveries are very reliable, but usually players are not back to full ability in their 1st year back. There are mental and physical reasons for this.

As McNeill mentioned, there is a mental hurdle that needs to be overcome. From a physical standpoint, MRI’s have shown that ACL healing can still be happening up to two years after surgical reconstruction.

All signs point to McNeill having a big bounceback year in 2026.

For information on Detroit Lions ACL data for the 2025 season…

First, a reminder of what’s yet to come this offseason…

Lions Offseason Schedule

• OTA: June 2-4

• OTA: June 9-11

• Mandatory minicamp: June 16-17

Quick Player Participation Update

• Kerby Joseph, S - No practice in Week 1 of OTA.

• Brian Branch, S - No practice in Week 1 of OTA.

• Sam LaPorta, TE - Jog-throughs in Week 1 of OTA.

• Terrion Arnold, CB - No practice in Week 1 of OTA.

• Ben Bartch, OG - Possibly not practicing. Uncertain reason, but my Bartch Free Agency Medical Report had him at a high medical concern level (9/10) due to a season-ending Lisfranc.

• Zach Horton, TE - Possibly not practicing. Uncertain reason. I have no record of significant injuries for him last year.

Sam LaPorta, TE

Herniated disc surgery - November 2025

While LaPorta was not fully available for the first week of OTA, he was still active with jog-throughs. This activity, albeit limited, reassures that there hasn’t been a setback and keeps him on track to be ready for the season. There is a pretty good chance he could be doing everything, but precaution is the Lions’ priority in early June.

OTA Week 2 Expectations: The Lions are playing it safe from an injury standpoint. Thus, expect LaPorta to do nothing more than jog-throughs for the rest of OTA.

Kerby Joseph, S

Last game appearance - October 12, 2025

As expected, Joseph wasn’t doing anything in the first week of OTA likely due to wear-and-tear knee management. If the Lions want to max out his chances of making it to Week 1 and through the season, this activity plan makes sense.

OTA Week 2 Expectations: While Joseph could try to test out the knee, there isn’t much point to doing so with still three months until the season opener. Do not expect Joseph to participate in OTA.

Brian Branch, S

Achilles rupture - December 4, 2025

Branch is at the 6-month mark in Achilles recovery and could be doing controlled cutting and sprinting drills at this point. It’s no surprise to see him absent from OTA though, as doing reactive football drills could add unnecessary risk to his rehab.

OTA Week 2 Expectations: No participation in OTA for Branch.

Terrion Arnold, CB

Two shoulder surgeries - December 2025

Arnold’s non-participation was a slight disappointment given that he was already doing “OTA-like” activities on his own, as seen in the Lions May 2026 Offseason Injury Updates. Maybe the Lions are being extra cautious, or maybe there is something else going on.

OTA Week 2 Expectations: Arnold could show up at OTA at any time. Hopefully, it’s this week.

Ben Bartch, OG

Lisfranc surgery - December 2025

The media was only given one day of observation last week for OTA, and Bartch was not visible. That doesn’t mean he wasn’t present the other two days.

The main concern is he is recovering from a season-ending Lisfranc surgery, as noted in my Bartch Medical Report. As a free agent, Bartch got $330,300 guaranteed from the Lions, implying confidence in his health at the time of signing in March.

OTA Week 2 Expectations: Unless there has been a surprise injury or setback, we should expect to see Bartch out there at OTA.

Zach Horton, TE

Media did not observe him practicing on Friday last week. Horton is on a 1-year deal with no guaranteed money. I have no record of significant injuries in his limited action last season with the Lions.

OTA Week 2 Expectations: More (or any) info is needed before setting expectations for Horton.

2026 Lions Rookies

Dan Campbell stated last week that a couple of rookies would be limited at OTA. It’s uncertain who he was referring to, but it seems unlikely to be any of the following rookies who were featured in pictures at DetroitLions.com…

Blake Miller

Jimmy Rolder

Kendrick Law

Luke Altmyer

I’ll keep an eye on further information and pictures of the Lions’ rookies this week.

Colby Sorsdal, OL

A player omission from my Pre-OTA Player Watchlist is Sorsdal, who missed the entire last season after an injury in the preseason. Video was suspicious for a left leg injury.

It’s uncertain if the injury was severe or if he was simply shelved for roster management reasons. Regardless, this former 5th-rounder, who is entering the final year of his rookie deal, is active at OTA. Hopefully, this is the start of something promising for Sorsdal, who is still just 26-years-old entering the season.

For an in-depth look at Brian Branch’s Achilles injury…

I reviewed all my Lions injury videos of 2025 and 2024 to look for friendly fire. Here is the quick recap followed by all the videos - ranked by significance.

I also assign avoidable or unavoidable tags to the injuries, with the caveat that there is gray area here. “Avoidable” injuries have unnecessary and foreseeable action that led to the injury.

Lions 2025 Friendly Fire Recap

• 6 friendly fire injuries

• 0 were “avoidable”

• All injuries minor and did not lead to any missed games.

• Conclusion: Friendly fire was not a problem during the 2025 season.

Lions 2024 Friendly Fire Recap

• 8 friendly fire injuries

• Only 1, maybe 2, were “avoidable”

• 4 led to major injuries with significant time missed.

• Conclusion: Friendly fire had a huge impact on the 2024 season.

2025 Detroit Lions Friendly Fire Injury Videos

#1 Amon-Ra St. Brown - Right low ankle sprain

Unavoidable

Rolled up on by a teammate, ARSB left this game but was back for the next.

#2 Jack Campbell - Lip laceration

Unavoidable

This one could have been avoided if Branch makes the easy interception, but otherwise was just a fluky occurrence. Campbell’s laceration looked nasty, but the repair was excellent. Campbell missed no time.

#3 Jared Goff - Left foot/ankle

Unavoidable

Just a very minor issue here that Goff played through.

#4 Brian Branch - Right knee contusion

Unavoidable

Branch was banged up many times throughout the season including this minor contusion. Campbell could have had a serious leg-whip injury here (see Aidan Hutchinson and Khalil Dorsey in 2024), but escaped clean.

#5 Graham Glasgow - Low back cleated

Unavoidable

This one was painful, but minor, as Glasgow returned later in the game.

#6 Amik Robertson - Left thigh contusion

Unavoidable

No missed games for this minor issue as Branch’s shoulder slammed into Robertson’s thigh. If the contact was just a couple inches lower, Robertson’s knee would have been at risk. Football is a game of inches, in more ways than one.

2024 Detroit Lions Friendly Fire Injury Videos

#1 Aidan Hutchinson - Left tib/fib fracture

Unavoidable

Just two elite players getting to the QB at the same time… the result of which ended Hutch’s season in Week 6.

#2 Khalil Dorsey - Right tib/fib fracture

Unavoidable

This “trains crossing in the night” freak injury ended Dorsey’s season in Week 15.

#3 Alex Anzalone - Left forearm fracture

Possibly avoidable

While this injury possibly could have been avoided, it’s hard to blame Branch here as he was ahead of Anzalone, whose arm was in the wrong place at the wrong time. Anzalone missed the next 6 games but returned for the final 2 games of the season.

#4 Amik Robertson - Left humerus fracture

Avoidable

This was the most “avoidable” of all the friendly fires as Robertson had his man securely wrapped up. Sometimes these big, late, legal hits can create gamechanging turnovers, but sometimes they can injure your own teammate.

Robertson’s loss in the first couple minutes of this playoff game may have affected the outcome.

#5 Alex Anzalone - Concussion

Unavoidable

Poor Anzalone shows up again on this list when Baker Mayfield’s shiftiness got two Lion LB’s caught in a bad position. Anzalone missed the next game.

#6 Terrion Arnold - Right foot sprain/contusion

Unavoidable

This foot collision could have had a much worse outcome like a Lisfranc or turf toe. Arnold left this game, but was back for the next.

#7 Carlton Davis - Cleat to head

Unavoidable

This fluky injury caused Davis to leave the game, but he was back for the next. Implausibly, this was not the only unusual head injury for Davis in 2024, as he had a season-ending jaw fracture later on.

#8 Penei Sewell - Left knee

Unavoidable

Jared Goff falls into Sewell leading to an awkward leg contortion in the playoff game. The video had Lions’ fans worried, but the limber All-Pro did not miss a snap.

For an analysis of Detroit Lions training camp injuries…