The Detroit Lions made several roster changes ahead of their Week 16 game against the Chicago Bears, including releasing safety Brandon Joseph.
Joseph, an undrafted free agent signed in 2023, spent last year on the Lions’ practice squad before making the 53-man roster this season. He played in all 14 games before his release, logging 182 defensive snaps and 97 on special teams. However, on the morning of his release, Joseph was arrested on suspicion of operating under the influence after being pulled over for speeding in Dearborn Heights, according to the Detroit Free Press’ Dave Birkett. Police reported that Joseph was compliant, detained, and later released.
Head coach Dan Campbell stated that Joseph’s release resulted from a combination of the off-field incident and a roster crunch. “It was the perfect storm,” Campbell said, adding that he felt it was the necessary decision.
The Lions’ decision was further influenced by the activation of safety Ifeatu Melifonwu from injured reserve before the game. Melifonwu played 51 snaps against the Bears, allowing Brian Branch to shift to the slot and Amik Robertson to cover for the injured Carlton Davis on the boundary. Melifonwu made an immediate impact, recording one sack, three pressures, and no receptions allowed on a single target, according to Pro Football Focus.
Looking ahead, the Lions face the San Francisco 49ers on Monday night in Week 17. While the 49ers have been eliminated from playoff contention, the Lions can secure the NFC North title and the No. 1 seed with a win and a Minnesota Vikings loss to the Green Bay Packers.
