The Detroit Lions ended the 2025 NFL season with a 9-8 record, fourth in the NFC North and missing the playoffs. Injuries have played a large role in their performance, with the team ranking second in the league based on the number of games lost and first after similar issues in 2024.
In chronological order, here are the 10 most impactful injuries. Previously on Lions Wire:
advertise
Now, number 10:
No. 10: December 4, 2025 (Week 14) – Brian Branch right Achilles tendon
Brian Branch’s 2025 regular season with the Detroit Lions ended prematurely after 12 games with a right Achilles tendon injury. Prior to his injury, he was a key starter on the Lions defense.
injury timeline
-
December 4, 2025 (Week 14): Branch injured his right Achilles tendon late in the fourth quarter against the Cowboys. He was seen limping off the field and was eventually carried to the locker room.
-
December 5, 2025: An MRI confirmed a complete tear of the Achilles tendon. The Lions have officially ruled him out for the remainder of the 2025 season.
-
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 a second major blow when Branch was injured, ending his season and potentially affecting next season. – Jimmy Liao, MD
Injury video
NFL career statistics (2023–2025)
|
statistics |
career total |
|
Games played |
43 |
|
Total tackles |
243–258 |
|
by deflection |
38 |
|
intercept |
7 |
|
sack |
4.5 |
|
forced to drop the ball |
3 |
|
defensive touchdown |
1 |
prospect
Typical Achilles tendon recovery time is approximately 10-11 months. An October return would be a great result for Branch.
For more Lions coverage, follow us on X, @TheLionsWire and like our Facebook page. Follow Jimmy on X, @JimmyLiaoMD
advertise
This article originally appeared on Lions Wire: The 10 most impactful injuries to the Lions in 2025: No. 10, Brian Branch