Brian Branch, DJ Wonnum (concussions checks) exit after nasty collision

Detroit Lions defensive starters Brian Branch and DJ Wonnum were injured in the second quarter Sunday in Week 8 against the Minnesota Vikings at Ford Field in Detroit.

>The two collided on the play, with both evaluated for a brain injury per the league's concussion protocol.

>They were trying to tackle Vikings receiver Justin Jefferson. Branch got up but Wonnum stayed down, and was eventually carted off the field after spending a few minutes on the field being checked by trainers.

>The Vikings led 7-3 at the time of the injuries.

>Fifth-round rookie Keith Abney entered in Branch's place at safety. This was Branch's second game back after Achilles surgery in December 2025.

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>This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Brian Branch, DJ Wonnum (concussions checks) exit after nasty collision