The Detroit Lions just dropped a bombshell, inking safety Kerby Joseph to a jaw-dropping four-year, $86 million extension, making him the NFL’s highest-paid safety at $21.5 million a year, per NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport. The deal cements the 24-year-old All-Pro as one of the integral parts of Detroit’s defense, and Lions fans are losing it, in the best way.
Joseph, a 2022 third-round steal, exploded in 2024, snagging a league-leading nine interceptions and earning First-Team All-Pro honors. His knack for picking off passes and laying big hits (83 tackles last season) turned him into a fan favorite and a nightmare for quarterbacks. “I love Detroit, and Detroit loves me,” Joseph said, grinning, during recent contract talks, per FOX 2’s Jennifer Hammond. This deal, topping Antoine Winfield Jr.’s $84.1 million contract, proves the Lions are all-in on their ball-hawking star.
GM Brad Holmes was wise to not hesitate, with the Lions coming off a 15-2 season and eyeing a Super Bowl run, locking up Joseph ensures their elite safety room that includes Brian Branch remains intact.
This extension isn’t just about cash—it’s a statement. Detroit’s building a powerhouse, and Joseph’s their defensive sparkplug. As the Lions gear up for the 2025 Hall of Fame Game, expect Joseph to keep picking passes and breaking records, all while rocking that Honolulu Blue swagger.