The Detroit Lions are getting much-needed reinforcements. After the 2-2 start that feels more like 0-4, the Lions desperately need to turn things around. They hope that the returns of Cade Mays and Brian Branch will provide the spark they need.
Mays and Branch both returned to practice this week after missing the first four weeks of the season, but it's unclear whether they will be ready in Week 5. Branch's absence was strongly felt as the Lions' defense consistently got carved up at the start of the season. This put defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard on thin ice, and it looks like Branch may be the only thing that can save him.
Can Brian Branch save Kelvin Sheppard's job with his return?
On Thursday, Sheppard spoke to the media and said that Branch "literally looks like he hasn't been out," per team insider Nolan Bianchi. Sheppard added that he feels confident that Branch could even play on Thursday if the Lions were playing. He went on to say that it won't be his call to make.
This sentiment was shared by the star safety. After his return to practice earlier in the week, Branch said that he is "ready to go" and doesn't feel like he is in his head, as he was after his return from toe surgery two years ago.
While it's certainly positive that Branch and the coaching staff are confident in his ability to contribute right away, it's important to temper expectations. Is it really realistic to expect any player to return from a ten-month absence and play in an NFL game after less than a week of practice with the team?
Desperate times call for desperate measures. Even though many assumed that Branch would make his return in Week 7 against the Green Bay Packers, the Lions can't afford to enter the bye week with a 2-3 record. Could that force their hand in playing Branch against the Cardinals on Sunday?
If it were up to Sheppard, he would certainly want Branch out there. Another bad defensive performance and a loss could mean the end of the road for Sheppard entering bye week. A return from Branch, an improved defensive unit, and a convincing win, on the other hand, would earn Sheppard significant time.
All eyes will be on the Lions defense in Week 5. Sheppard stood behind his players and his own decision-making on Thursday, but it's time he delivers on the field. If Branch isn't available on Sunday, it may be hard for the Lions to really convince their fans that they are a Super Bowl-caliber defense with the personnel they currently have.
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