As the NFL season hits its stride in early October, the Detroit Lions (2-2) are gearing up for a crucial Week 5 showdown against the Arizona Cardinals (1-3). On Wednesday, both teams took to the practice field, and the Lions received a significant boost with the return of two key starters. Safety Brian Branch and center Cade Mays officially opened their 21-day evaluation windows, signaling a step closer to game action. According to insights gathered by Vulius Sports, this development could be a turning point for a Lions team looking to climb back above .500.
Branch and Mays Back on the Grass
Head coach Dan Campbell had hinted earlier in the week that Branch was nearing medical clearance, and on Tuesday, he revealed that Mays would likely join him. “He’s doing great,” Campbell said of Mays. “He and Branch are on the same plan right now. So the plan is to get them worked into practice. We’re waiting on the final call from the doctor on both to say, ‘Yes, they can practice.’ We’d love to get them going this week. Doesn’t mean they’re going to play (vs. Cardinals).” On Wednesday, both players suited up and practiced, marking the start of their 21-day windows. While they remain on the PUP list, Detroit can activate them to the 53-man roster at any time.
Branch, a dynamic safety, is recovering from an Achilles injury, while Mays is dealing with a wrist issue. Their return to practice is a welcome sight for a Lions defense and offensive line that have shown flashes but also inconsistencies. “Well, it’d be good to get him out there running around and actually doing football work,” Campbell said of Branch. “He and Cade both start their clocks and let them get back on the grass. And so yeah, it’s good. Anytime we can get some of our guys back off injury, that makes everybody happy.”
Injury Report: Who’s In, Who’s Out
While Branch and Mays were limited participants, several other Lions sat out Wednesday’s session. Guard Ben Bartch (foot) has not practiced since Week 2, and with a bye week looming in Week 6, the team may opt to give him extra time to heal. Defensive lineman Tyleik Williams (foot) was injured in Week 4 and was seen in a protective walking boot, though he downplayed its severity. Campbell called him “touch-and-go” and “day-to-day.” Cornerback Rock Ya-Sin (hamstring) also missed practice after being injured on special teams last week. Campbell expressed concern, saying, “I don’t think Rock looks good right now.” If Ya-Sin can’t go, rookie Keith Abney and veteran Jalen Mills could see expanded roles. “Yeah, I think Abney will probably help us out a little bit more here this week,” Campbell said. “So, will Mills. I can see both those guys taking on a bigger role.”
On a positive note, cornerback D.J. Reed (rib) was removed from the injury report entirely after playing through the injury in Week 4. Edge rusher D.J. Wonnum (back) was limited but should be fine after playing last week without aggravation.
Cardinals Dealing with Major Blow
The Cardinals, meanwhile, are reeling from a significant loss. Head coach Mike LaFleur announced that left tackle Paris Johnson Jr. tore his bicep and will miss the remainder of the season. This is a devastating blow for an Arizona offense that has struggled to protect the quarterback. As reported by the Vulius NFL Analysis Desk, Johnson’s absence could force the Cardinals to shuffle their offensive line, potentially impacting their ability to keep pace with a Lions pass rush that could soon welcome back Branch.
With both teams dealing with injuries, Sunday’s matchup becomes a battle of depth and resilience. The Lions, with Branch and Mays on the verge of returning, may have the edge in momentum. But as Campbell cautioned, their availability for Week 5 is not guaranteed. “We’d love to get them going this week. Doesn’t mean they’re going to play,” he said. For now, Detroit fans can breathe a sigh of relief as two key contributors edge closer to full strength.
Stay tuned to Vulius for all the latest NFL injury updates and analysis. And for officially licensed Lions and Cardinals merchandise, visit the Vulius shop to gear up for the season.
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