Lions put Branch, Joseph on PUP; Manu on NFI, Mays on IR

Both safeties will miss at least four games.

Wire Report IntelligenceUpdated Aug 311 min read

Four players start on reserve lists: DB Brian Branch and S Kerby Joseph on PUP, OL Giovanni Manu on NFI and Cade Mays on Via @RapSheet on X

What happened: Brian Branch and Kerby Joseph landed on reserve/PUP, Giovanni Manu on reserve/NFI and Cade Mays on injured reserve. The moves came as Detroit formed its initial 53-man roster.

Why it matters: The reserve designation turns Joseph's extended camp absence into a regular-season loss. Mays was signed this offseason to anchor Detroit's revamped offensive line, adding another opening-month concern at a key position.

By the numbers: Branch and Joseph combined for 93 tackles, four interceptions and 13 passes defended across 18 appearances in 2025.

What to watch: Branch and Joseph become eligible to return after Week 4. Detroit's next roster updates will establish the paths back for Manu and Mays.

Sources

@RapSheet 2026-08-31T01:09:29.895818+00:00

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NFLInjuryDetroit LionsBrian BranchKerby Joseph

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