PHX Reporter

The Arizona Cardinals have placed tight end Trey McBride in concussion protocol following a helmet-to-helmet collision with Lions defensive back Brian Branch during Sunday's game.

Both players were down on the field after the incident, which occurred late in the game. Cardinals coach Jonathan Gannon commented on the situation, stating, "We're trying to coach guys where it keeps them out of harm's way so to speak, but football is a combative violent sport and unfortunately, those happen." He added that he was concerned for both players involved in the collision. "I actually asked (Lions head coach) Dan (Campbell) 'is he OK?' And Dan was like, 'Yeah'. Then Dan asked right away, 'How's your guy?' You don't want to see that as a coach, but you understand that's part of the sport too."

Gannon also praised the NFL's efforts to reduce such incidents through rule changes aimed at minimizing head injuries. "I think the NFL has done a good job of making rules, so you try to eliminate some of those, which that's good for business. You don't want to see guys get head injuries," he said.

McBride's health is a primary concern for the team and could affect their performance on the field. Although McBride has yet to have a standout game this season, he remains one of quarterback Kyler Murray's trusted targets. Murray expressed his thoughts on McBride's potential absence: "Obviously it hurts us that he may or may not be in the game. For me I have all the faith in Elijah (Higgins) and Tip (Reiman) to step up."

Despite his injury, McBride appeared in good spirits when seen walking through the locker room during media access time. He even smiled upon seeing rookie teammate Marvin Harrison Jr. surrounded by reporters.

Earlier this year, Cardinals cornerback Max Melton went through concussion protocol and returned to play the following week.