Detroit Lions Starter Catches Mysterious Illness Before Seahawks Game

The Detroit Lions had an unfortunate update on their Week 4 injury report on Sunday morning. The 2-1 Lions are set to play the 3-0 Seattle Seahawks on Monday night.

Second-year safety Brian Branch was listed on the Lions' injury report this week for a concussion. He was limited in practice on Thursday before being a full participant for practice on Friday and Saturday.

According to the NFL Network's Ian Rapoport, Branch had another reason to be on the injury report. He is battling an undisclosed illness.

"Update for MNF: Lions, DB Brian Branch (Illness) has been added to the injury report. He’s listed as doubtful," Rapoport wrote on X.

Fans were mystified as to what the illness was, with some wondering if the concussion played a role in the downgrade.

"What illness," one fan asked .

"llness? Why he’s not in concussion protocol too," another questioned .

Branch is an important piece in the Lions' secondary. Detroit traded up to grab the Alabama standout with the No. 45 pick of the 2023 draft.

Branch has started in all three of the Lions' games this season. He's recorded 22 total tackles, two tackles for loss, and one interception.

Lions backup safe Brandon Joseph will likely get the start at safety if Branch is officially ruled out on Monday night.

Related: Lions final injury report: Ragnow officially ruled out, Melifonwu placed on IR