By Moses Joshua 
Kerby Joseph sidelined and Brian Branch suspended as Detroit’s secondary faces major test under Monday night lights
Secondary in Shambles as Injuries Pile Up
The Detroit Lions will enter their Monday Night Football clash against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers with a depleted defensive backfield — a nightmare scenario for any team facing one of the NFC’s hottest offenses.
All-Pro safety Kerby Joseph (knee) has officially been ruled out as the Lions opt to give him extra rest heading into their bye week. Meanwhile, Brian Branch will also miss the game as he serves his one-game suspension following last week’s altercation with the Kansas City Chiefs.
Compounding the issue, D.J. Reed remains on injured reserve, while Avonte Maddox (hamstring) and Terrion Arnold (shoulder) have both been ruled out. In short, Detroit will be without its top three safeties and two of its best cornerbacks — a serious challenge for a team trying to bounce back before the break.
Joseph Gets a Crucial Two-Week Recovery Window
Joseph’s knee injury has lingered since training camp, resurfacing multiple times throughout the season. Though the team insists the star safety is improving, the decision to rest him now may be a long-term play.
“The safety simply needs more time to rest,” a team source explained, and this week’s absence effectively gives him a two-week window to recover before Detroit’s next outing against the Minnesota Vikings.
Rookie Terrion Arnold, who returned to practice earlier this week, will also benefit from the extended rest. The Lions expect him to rejoin the lineup after the bye.
Patchwork Secondary: Next Men Up
With so many absences, the Lions are turning to depth and versatility to fill the void. Amik Robertson and Rock Ya-Sin are expected to start at outside cornerback, while the nickel role could feature a mix of Alex Anzalone, Derrick Barnes, and Arthur Maulet.
At safety, Thomas Harper — who stepped in when Joseph went down in Kansas City — could see significant playing time again. The recently signed Jammie Robinson may even make his Lions debut, while Erick Hallett II could also factor into the rotation given his ability to play both safety and corner.
It’s an untested group, but Detroit’s defensive culture under Dan Campbell emphasizes resilience. The coaching staff will rely heavily on discipline and communication to limit mistakes against Tampa Bay’s explosive passing game.
Bright Spots: McNeill’s Return and Decker’s Possible Comeback
Amid the injury concerns, Detroit received some encouraging news. Defensive lineman Alim McNeill is expected to make his long-awaited return after nearly a year away from the field. Campbell didn’t mince words: “He’s freaking playing,” the head coach said.
McNeill confirmed his readiness, adding, “I’m 100%. People get hurt and come back all the time. Let’s just go play football.”
Left tackle Taylor Decker (shoulder) is also trending toward a return after missing two games, though his final status will be determined closer to kickoff.
Detroit’s Resolve to Be Tested
With key starters sidelined, this game will test the Lions’ depth and adaptability more than any other this season. Their ability to stay competitive against the Buccaneers’ offense could define how the team is viewed heading into the second half of the season.
Despite the adversity, one thing remains certain: under Dan Campbell, the Lions won’t use injuries as an excuse. They’ll take the field in true Detroit fashion — gritty, determined, and ready to fight.