The Detroit Lions are heading into their massive Week 15 showdown with the Los Angeles Rams a little banged up — and Friday’s final injury report made that crystal clear.
Two key defensive backs, Brian Branch and Kerby Joseph, have officially been ruled out for Sunday. Branch, who recently underwent Achilles surgery, was never expected to play, but Joseph’s knee setback this week dealt another tough blow to Detroit’s secondary.
But that’s not all. Seven more Lions enter the weekend listed as questionable, including starting left tackle Taylor Decker, who missed every practice this week with a shoulder issue. Decker’s availability could play a huge role in how effectively the Lions can protect Jared Goff.
Here’s the full rundown:
Lions Injury Report — Week 15 vs. Rams
| Player | Position | Injury | Wed | Thurs | Fri | Game Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brian Branch | DB | Achilles | NP | NP | NP | Out |
| Kerby Joseph | S | Knee | LP | NP | NP | Out |
| Kayode Awosika | G | Foot | LP | LP | LP | Questionable |
| Taylor Decker | T | Shoulder/Rest | NP | NP | NP | Questionable |
| Thomas Harper | S | Concussion | LP | LP | LP | Questionable |
| Christian Mahogany | G | Fibula | LP | LP | LP | Questionable |
| Kalif Raymond | WR | Ankle | LP | LP | LP | Questionable |
| Sione Vaki | RB | Thumb | LP | LP | LP | Questionable |
| Shane Zylstra | TE | Knee | LP | LP | LP | Questionable |
| Alex Anzalone | LB | Illness | NP | FP | FP | — |
The good news? Alex Anzalone bounced back from an illness and practiced fully by the end of the week, meaning Detroit’s defensive captain should be good to go.
The not-so-good news? Detroit’s depth will absolutely be tested, especially in the secondary. With Matthew Stafford and the Rams’ offense playing some of their best football of the season, the Lions will need strong performances from their backups — and maybe a little holiday magic — to walk out of L.A. with a win.
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