Lions Open Practice Window for Branch, Mays

The Detroit Lions opened 21-day practice windows for safety Brian Branch and center Cade Mays on Oct. 7, and both returned to practice on a limited basis after lengthy absences. Branch is recovering from a torn Achilles suffered in December, while Mays is returning from a wrist injury suffered in training camp. Neither is expected to play against Arizona this Sunday; the bye week gives them more time to prepare for a possible return afterward. Branch’s comeback is especially important as Detroit’s injury-hit defense ranks among the league’s worst, including last in passing yards allowed. Defensive tackle Tyleik Williams and cornerback Rock Ya-Sin missed Wednesday’s practice, while edge rusher DJ Wonnum was limited, leaving their availability for Sunday uncertain.