Detroit Lions coach Dan Campbell spoke to the media on Friday less than two days before the team faces off against the Carolina Panthers. While addressing a multitude of different topics an important one was the health and status of Brian Branch.
The rookie defensive back has looked every bit the part this year through four games. He has a total of 21 tackles, three tackles or a loss, four pass breakups, and one interception that was returned for a touchdown in week one. Sadly, Branch suffered an injury in the third quarter of last week’s win in Green Bay and while it was a non-contact injury he avoided serious injury.
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Campbell told the media on Friday when discussing his status they “don’t feel as good about him this weekend but there again it is not looking like this long-term thing which is why we didn’t put him on IR.”
Looking ahead Campbell did offer a ray of hope for the team’s week six matchup saying “We’re hopeful for Tampa but we will have to play it by ear.”
In his absence, Jerry Jacobs stepped up and made plays against the Packers. His two interceptions played a major part in them securing a win on the road and now he may be asked to step up and be the defensive playmaker once again.