Lions Expect Branch Return, Mays to Start at Center

The Detroit Lions expect safety Brian Branch and center Cade Mays to make their season debuts against the Green Bay Packers after recovering from an Achilles tear and a broken wrist, respectively. Coach Dan Campbell said Branch’s workload will be managed following his 10-month absence, while the team is still determining how much Mays will play. Mays is expected to take over at center rather than rotate with Juice Scruggs, who has played well in his absence. Branch’s return could help a Detroit secondary that has struggled against explosive passing plays, and the Lions are still deciding whether to seek additional help before the trade deadline.