The Detroit Lions finished the 2025 NFL season with a 9-8 record, finishing fourth in the NFC North and missing the playoffs. Injuries played a significant role in their performance, with the team ranking as the second-most injured in the league based on man-games lost, following a similar issue in 2024 where they were No. 1.
There were 10 injuries that stood out as most impactful in chronological order. Previously on Lions Wire:
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Now, No. 10:
No. 10: Dec. 4, 2025 (Week 14) – Brian Branch right Achilles
Brian Branch’s 2025 regular season with the Detroit Lions ended early after 12 games due to a right Achilles injury. Before the injury, he was a key starter for the Lions’ defense.
Injury Timeline
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December 4, 2025 (Week 14): Branch sustained a right Achilles injury late in the fourth quarter against the Cowboys. He was seen limping off the field and was eventually carted to the locker room.
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December 5, 2025: An MRI confirmed a full Achilles tendon tear. The Lions officially ruled him out for the remainder of the 2025 season.
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Mid-December 2025: Branch underwent successful surgery to repair the tear within a week of the injury.
Here is an excerpt from my article:
The safety position took its second massive blow with Branch’s injury, which ended his season and will likely affect the next season as well. -Jimmy Liao MD
Injury video
NFL Career Statistics (2023–2025)
|
Statistic |
Career Total |
|
Games Played |
43 |
|
Total Tackles |
243–258 |
|
Pass Deflections |
38 |
|
Interceptions |
7 |
|
Sacks |
4.5 |
|
Forced Fumbles |
3 |
|
Defensive Touchdowns |
1 |
OUTLOOK
A typical Achilles recovery is around 10-11 months. A return in October would be a good outcome for Branch.
For more Lions coverage, follow us on X, @TheLionsWire, and give our Facebook page a like. Follow Jimmy on X, @JimmyLiaoMD
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This article originally appeared on Lions Wire: Lions’ top 10 most impactful injuries of 2025: No. 10, Brian Branch