Lions safety Brian Branch has 'no limitations' moving forward

ALLEN PARK — In the first half of their win over the Green Bay Packers on Oct. 25, the Detroit Lions played it safe with Brian Branch. Then Branch, who was making his return from a torn Achilles he suffered last December, was on the field for every defensive snap in the third and fourth quarters. His body has since responded well, and Lions coach Dan Campbell said Friday, Oct. 30, "there's no limitations on him going into this game" against the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday, Nov. 1. More: Niyo: Brian Branch's return lifts a Lions defense that's on the rise "We feel like he's in a good place," Campbell said. "That's a credit to him, that's a credit to (director of player health and performance) Brett Fischer and his staff and (head strength and conditioning coach) Josh Schuler, those guys, really, getting him physically ready." Branch ultimately played 45 of a possible 67 snaps against the Packers. He finished with four tackles (three run stops) and hauled in an interception. "That was the big one, to be able to get real, intense volume," Campbell said. "You're talking about 38, 40 reps, 45, whatever that was. It's perfect. So, now, he's ready." rsilva@detroitnews.com @rich_silva18