Overview
- Branch tore his Achilles in early December 2025 and underwent surgery that ended his season.
- Coach Dan Campbell said on June 11 that the team is using a conservative return window that stretches to December and called any earlier comeback a bonus.
- Campbell and multiple reports say Branch has shown no setbacks in rehab but still has no firm return timetable as training camp nears.
- Detroit has added veteran safety depth this offseason, signing Chuck Clark and Christian Izien and keeping Avonte Maddox and Thomas Harper available to cover early-season gaps.
- General manager Brad Holmes has reviewed comparable recoveries and the club is pausing extension talks for the contract-year player until medical assurance improves, with opening on the PUP list carrying a minimum four-game absence.