The Detroit Lions and safety Kerby Joseph agreed to a four-year, $86 million contract extension. The $21.5 million annual average makes him the highest-paid player at his position, not bad for an athlete selected in the third round of the 2022 NFL Draft.
Joseph has been steady since Day 1, starting 14 out of 17 regular season games during his rookie season. However, he became an elite defensive back during the 2024 season. Joseph finished that year with 83 tackles, 12 passes defended, and a league-leading nine interceptions. He returned one of those picks for a touchdown. Those numbers earned him a First-Team All-Pro selection and finished sixth in the Defensive Player of the Year voting.
Lions, S Kerby Joseph agree on 4-year, $86M extension, making him the highest-paid safety in the league. (via @RapSheet) pic.twitter.com/tpwlFpsCIV
— NFL (@NFL) April 23, 2025
Joseph helped stabilize the Lions defensive unit decimated by injuries. However, they fell short against the Washington Commanders during the Divisional Round at home. More importantly, the Lions retain Joseph as he steps into his peak years.
-Lance Fernandez