The Detroit Lions have released safety Brandon Joseph just hours after he was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence.
Joseph, in his second year, was taken into custody at 1:47 a.m. on Saturday in Dearborn Heights, a Detroit suburb, and was released around six hours later.
As reported by ESPN, the 23-year-old was observed speeding through the city. After being pulled over, officers reportedly detected signs of intoxication. He was arrested and tested by police before being released that morning. Later, the Lions decided to waive Joseph.
This move came less than 24 hours before the Lions’ game against the Chicago Bears.
Joseph, who signed as an undrafted free agent in 2023, played 14 games this season, alternating between the Lions’ active roster and practice squad.
Paul Vanderplow from the Dearborn Heights Police Department told ESPN, “He was very cooperative, he was compliant. We had reasonable suspicion and probable cause to investigate him for operating under the influence. He subjected himself to all required tests, and we are awaiting the results before determining if further charges will be filed.”
In addition to releasing Joseph, the Lions also waived wide receiver Maurice Alexander and defensive lineman David Bada, who was waived with an injury settlement.
The Lions activated safety Ifeatu Melifonwu from injured reserve on Saturday, bringing him closer to his season debut. Melifonwu was listed as questionable for Sunday’s game against the Bears due to a hand injury. Safety Brian Branch (calf) and guard Graham Glasgow (knee) were also questionable for the game.
Center Frank Ragnow (back) and linebacker Trevor Nowaske (concussion) were not listed on the injury report and are expected to play.
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