As the Detroit Lions disperse for the offseason, the medical and training staffs remain busy. Several key contributors are facing extended recovery timelines from significant injuries suffered during the 2025 season, which will impact their availability for offseason workouts and potentially the start of the 2026 campaign.
Major Rehab Projects
- TE Sam LaPorta (Herniated Disc): The Pro Bowl tight end suffered a herniated disc in Week 10 of the 2025 season against the Washington Commanders, an injury he described as an accumulation of hits. LaPorta (entering his 4th year in 2026) has been open about the rehabilitation process. While he is expected to make a full recovery, disc injuries are notoriously delicate and require a careful, monitored return to full-contact football. His participation in Organized Team Activities (OTAs) and minicamp is likely to be heavily restricted, with the team eyeing a gradual ramp-up for Training Camp.
- S Brian Branch (Lisfranc Surgery): Perhaps the more concerning situation is with versatile defensive back Brian Branch. He underwent surgery for a Lisfranc injury in his foot late in the 2025 season. Reported recovery timelines for such procedures range from 8 to 12 months, placing his status for Week 1 of the 2026 season firmly in question. Branch (entering his 4th year) is a critical piece of the secondary, capable of playing slot corner and safety. His absence would force a significant reshuffling in the defensive backfield. It is worth noting that Branch also served a one-game suspension in 2025 for a postgame altercation, an issue that has been resolved but adds to a challenging year for the young defender.
Other End-of-Season Injuries The Lions’ final injury report from their Week 18 victory over Chicago revealed other lingering issues:
- DT Alim McNeill (Abdomen): The anchor of the defensive interior was listed as a non-participant in practices leading up to the Bears game on January 4 due to an abdomen injury. The severity is unclear, but it likely contributed to his managed workload late in the season.
- OL Trystan Colon (Wrist): Colon was placed on Injured Reserve on January 3, 2026, ending his season due to a wrist injury. He was also a non-participant in the final week of practice.
- S Thomas Harper (Concussion): Listed on a CBS Sports injury report dated January 5, Harper was noted as having a concussion and being questionable for the start of Training Camp. This underscores the ongoing management of head injuries even into the offseason.
Outlook for 2026 The health of LaPorta and Branch is paramount for the Lions’ aspirations. LaPorta is Jared Goff’s most reliable safety valve and a red-zone nightmare, while Branch’s versatility is a key component of Defensive Coordinator Aaron Glenn’s scheme. Their rehab progress will be the most closely monitored storylines of the Lions’ spring and summer. The team’s depth, tested by these injuries, will be a focal point for General Manager Brad Holmes as he navigates free agency and the draft. Ensuring the roster can withstand the absence of key players early in the season may become a strategic priority.