Overview
- Coach Dan Campbell said the trio were not taking part in Week 1 OTAs on Friday, May 29, and that all three are “improving” but remain sidelined for now.
- Sam LaPorta has done limited on-field walkthroughs and jog-throughs since back surgery in November but is not expected to be a full practice participant until training camp.
- Brian Branch is recovering from a torn Achilles suffered in December and is not expected to be ready by the start of training camp in late July.
- Kerby Joseph missed the final 11 games last season with a degenerative knee condition and is managing the issue without major surgery, making his availability dependent on ongoing maintenance.
- The Lions used OTAs for low-risk check-ins, held other players out as a precaution, and are weighing short-term depth moves because the absences could shape early-season roles and roster plans.