Latest On Lions’ Injuries: Branch, LaPorta, Arnold

Starting safety Brian Branch may require the most patience. After tearing his Achilles tendon in his right leg late last year, Branch is reportedly “not expected to be ready for the start of training camp in late July.” Fellow starting safety Kerby Joseph missed the last 11 games of the year “due to a degenerative condition in his knee.” The two had become a reliable duo in the Lions’ defensive outfield, and their extended absences forced Detroit to invest in some insurance in free agency.

Lions tight end Sam LaPorta is working his way back from a herniated disc in his back and “has taken part in ‘some walk-through (and) jog-through’ portions of practice this spring.” Though he is back on the field early, Detroit will continue to practice patience as LaPorta “is not expected to be a full participant in practice until training camp.” The same was true for cornerback Terrion Arnold, who is being slow-played as he works his way back from season-ending shoulder surgery in the hope that he’ll be healthy when the team opens the season.

Though Campbell did not provide an update on Joseph’s recovery timeline, he relayed that none of Branch, Joseph, or LaPorta were expected to participate this past week. “The most important thing is continue to let them improve, rehab, all that,” Campbell told reporters. “That’ll take precedence right now. So, they’re in meetings, they’re getting the mental side of this. Just take it day to day.”