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.DJ Wonnum concussion injury videoHelmet to helmet with Branch who is getting a concussion eval also pic.twitter.com/Wba7WJLVXr— Jimmy Liao MD | Detroit Lions Morning Rounds (@JimmyLiaoMD) November 1, 2026Fifth-round rookie Keith Abney entered in Branch's place at safety. This was Branch's second game back after Achilles surgery in December 2025.[ Join us immediately after the game for instant reaction from the "Freep Sports Show" on our Detroit Free Press livestream on YouTube. ]This breaking news story will be updated.This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Brian Branch, DJ Wonnum (concussions checks) exit after nasty collision