Good news and bad news came out of Dan Campbell’s press conference on the Monday after the bye.
GOOD NEWS: Regarding the status of Frank Ragnow and Brian Branch, “They were both out there practicing today. As of right now, they look good.”
BAD NEWS: Regarding Derrick Barnes potential return, “It’s tough to say right now. We will be fortunate to get him at any point this year.”
With this information, here is my updated analysis of these players’ injuries:
Frank Ragnow left pec strain
Ragnow hurt his pec two weeks ago on September 22 with an expected short-term recovery. With the news that Ragnow is already practicing, that’s further evidence that the pec strain was not severe and may not have even involved the tendon. Expect him to play vs the Cowboys.
Frank Ragnow L pec strain injury video
-1st quarter, missed no plays
-Partial tear (grade 1/2). Early reports suggest non-surgical, short-term injury.
-Could be back as soon as week 6 vs Cowboys pic.twitter.com/0a9d6Cy0FC— Jimmy Liao MD | Detroit Lions Morning Rounds (@JimmyLiaoMD) September 25, 2024
Brian Branch concussion/illness
Branch’s concussion was two weeks ago on September 22. He had cleared the protocol and was set to play last Monday night, but an unspecified illness the day prior sidelined him. Just speculating here, but there may have been a concern that some of the illness symptoms were possible post-concussion symptoms so giving him a game off was a “better-safe-than-sorry” move.
His doubtful designation (vs out) for last Monday implied that the illness was nothing long-term, thus neither the concussion nor the illness was expected to keep him out for the next game. With Branch practicing today, that means there have been no setbacks and he should play vs the Cowboys.
Brian Branch concussion injury video
-Both players (Trey McBride) go low and both appear to try to lead with shoulder. Unfortunately, helmets collide and both suffered concussions. pic.twitter.com/4umy12naDM— Jimmy Liao MD | Detroit Lions Morning Rounds (@JimmyLiaoMD) September 25, 2024
Derrick Barnes right knee
Barnes injury was on September 22 and video suggested a possible MCL sprain or more. Campbell’s comments today are not optimistic but there is still a chance Barnes could be back this year. It’s not a complete ACL tear as there would be no talk of a return.
Derrick Barnes R knee injury video
-Direct impact to knee, fortunately foot not planted
-Looks like lateral side hit which could cause MCL sprain.
-Placed on IR. If non-severe MCL, could be back in 4-6wks. pic.twitter.com/WKYGHwaKbM— Jimmy Liao MD | Detroit Lions Morning Rounds (@JimmyLiaoMD) September 25, 2024
