Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell announced Thursday that the team remains uncertain about the availability of safety Kerby Joseph for the upcoming season opener.
Joseph is managing a degenerative cartilage condition in his knee that sidelined him for 11 games last season.
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"Yeah, really, I don't know," Campbell said. "I honestly do not know."
The former All-Pro attended practice on Thursday but did not participate in drills.
He has shared images of alternative treatments on social media, but the team has not disclosed the exact procedures he has undergone.
"We are trying to be as smart as we can and not push this until we absolutely have to," Campbell said.
"It's not worth it right now."
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The Lions have signed veteran defensive backs this offseason to address depth, especially with fellow starting safety Brian Branch recovering from a torn Achilles tendon.
Christian Izien, Chuck Clark, and Avonte Maddox have been taking first-team reps during spring practices.
Campbell praised Izien's aggressive style, saying, "He's pretty violent. See ball, hit ball."
The coaching staff plans to evaluate Joseph further during mandatory summer workouts.
The team hopes he will be ready for the season opener against the New Orleans Saints on September 13.
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"Honestly, we probably won't know until we get into the thick of training camp," Campbell said.
