Detroit Lions star Brandon Joseph waived after he was arrested ahead of Bears clash

The Detroit Lions have waived safety Brandon Joseph – just hours after he was taken into police custody on suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol.

The second-year safety was arrested by cops at 1:47am on Saturday in the Detroit suburb of Dearborn Heights before being released around six hours later.

According to ESPN, the 23-year-old was seen driving through the city at speed. After he was stopped, officers reportedly noticed signs that Joseph had been drinking.

He was arrested and detained by police, who tested the safety before letting him leave on Saturday morning. But a few hours later, the Super Bowl hopefuls waived Joseph.

The Lions’ decision came less than 24 hours before they took on the Chicago Bears. 

The 23-year-old signed as an undrafted free agent in 2023. He played in 14 games this season, having spent time on both the Lions’ active roster and practice squad over recent years. 

The Lions’ decision came less than 24 hours before they took on the Chicago Bears

‘He was very cooperative, he was compliant,’ Paul Vanderplow of Dearborn Heights Police Department told ESPN. 

‘We had reasonable suspicion and probable cause to investigate him for operating under the influence.

‘He subjected himself to all required tests. We are waiting for the results of those tests before any additional charges are even filed.’

Detroit also released wide receiver Maurice Alexander and waived defensive lineman David Bada with an injury settlement. 

Meanwhile, the Lions activated safety Ifeatu Melifonwu from injured reserve on Saturday, putting him a step closer to making his season debut.

Melifonwu was listed as questionable due to a hand injury for Sunday’s game at Chicago. Safety Brian Branch (calf) and guard Graham Glasgow (knee) were also questionable for the Bears game.

Detroit did not list center Frank Ragnow (back) or linebacker Trevor Nowaske (concussion) on the injury report, and both are expected to play.