From NBC Sports · · 1m 10s
Lions safety Kerby Joseph still not ready to return
Dan Campbell says the injured safety won't play until he's fully healthy, leaving Detroit's secondary depleted.
In brief
Dan Campbell says the injured safety won't play until he's fully healthy, leaving Detroit's secondary depleted. Kerby Joseph's knee injury from last season continues to sideline him, and the Lions aren't rushing his return despite secondary struggles. Originally reported by NBC Sports.
Lions secondary hit hard early
Detroit's defense has struggled through the first two weeks without safeties Brian Branch and Kerby Joseph, forcing the team to search for depth.
Branch closer to return than Joseph
Head coach Dan Campbell said Brian Branch, recovering from a torn Achilles, is probably closer to returning than Kerby Joseph, who has dealt with knee problems since early last season.
Campbell won't rush Joseph back
When asked if Joseph will play this season, Campbell said he can't promise anything but is trying to get him ready as fast and smart as possible.
“I wish I could make you feel good. I can't make you feel good.”
Another safety goes down
The Lions lost Avonte Maddox in Week 2, forcing them to add veteran Jalen Mills to the practice squad to help shore up their depleted secondary.
Long-term secondary search ahead
Unless Joseph makes a major recovery, the Lions may need to continue searching for defensive help at safety for the rest of the season.
In short
Kerby Joseph's knee injury from last season continues to sideline him, and the Lions aren't rushing his return despite secondary struggles.
