The Detroit Lions have made a significant move in the NFL by signing safety Kerby Joseph to a groundbreaking contract extension that will make him the highest-paid safety in league history. On April 23, 2025, the Lions and Joseph agreed to a four-year extension worth $86 million, according to multiple reports, including NFL Network's Ian Rapoport and FOX Sports' Jordan Schultz. This contract, which kicks in at the start of the 2026 season, will see Joseph earn an average annual value (AAV) of $21.5 million, surpassing the previous record held by Tampa Bay Buccaneers safety Antoine Winfield Jr., who signed for $21.025 million per season.
Joseph, who is just 24 years old, has quickly established himself as one of the premier safeties in the NFL since being drafted by the Lions in the third round of the 2022 NFL Draft. In his first three seasons, he has logged an impressive 247 combined tackles, 17 interceptions, and 31 passes defensed. Notably, he led the league with nine interceptions in the 2024 season, earning a first-team All-Pro selection, although he was controversially snubbed for the Pro Bowl.
“I don’t know how you don’t make the Pro Bowl with nine interceptions, whatever that is, but he’s an All-Pro player and he’s been — he’s another one that’s gotten better and better,” said Lions general manager Brad Holmes, highlighting Joseph's growth and importance to the team. “He’s proven that he’s a Detroit Lion; he fits our culture.”
Joseph's performance in 2024 was nothing short of stellar. He recorded 83 tackles, 12 passes defensed, and his league-leading interceptions showcased his ability to change the game. His standout moment came during a two-interception game against the San Francisco 49ers in Week 17, contributing to a thrilling 40-34 victory. In the NFC divisional round, despite a loss to the Washington Commanders, Joseph's six tackles, including a tackle for loss, further solidified his status as a defensive cornerstone.
The Lions are currently in a phase of solidifying their core players, as they have already extended contracts for several key talents from the 2021 draft class, including offensive stars Jared Goff and David Montgomery, as well as defensive stalwarts like Amon-Ra St. Brown and Penei Sewell. Holmes emphasized the importance of retaining talent, stating, “We have so many of these young players that have been on rookie deals and we’ve been enjoying the impact that they’ve all been bringing. But now a bill is coming.”
Joseph's extension comes at a crucial time as the Lions prepare for the upcoming NFL Draft, which is set for April 25, 2025. The timing of the deal, finalized just over 24 hours before the draft, reflects the team's commitment to maintaining a competitive roster while also managing their salary cap effectively.
“Kerby makes the middle of the field a scary place,” said Lions safeties coach Jim O’Neil, praising Joseph's dual-threat capability as both a ballhawk and a formidable tackler. “He’s one of the few that I’ve been around that possesses both those characteristics so I have full trust in him.”
As the Lions look to build on their recent success—having won two consecutive NFC North titles and coming off a franchise-best 15-win season—they are positioning themselves as strong contenders for the upcoming Super Bowl. With Joseph anchoring the defense alongside fellow safety Brian Branch, who was also recognized for his contributions last season, the Lions boast one of the league's most formidable safety tandems.
Joseph's journey in the NFL has been remarkable. After starting his career as a backup, he quickly ascended to a starting role following an injury to safety Tracy Walker. His early contributions included leading the team in interceptions during his rookie season, with pivotal takeaways against the Green Bay Packers, including a historic interception of quarterback Aaron Rodgers, marking the last pass he threw for the franchise.
The Lions' decision to lock in Joseph reflects not only his individual accomplishments but also the broader strategy of the organization to cultivate homegrown talent. As they continue to develop a competitive roster, Joseph's extension is a clear signal of the Lions' intent to keep their best players and build a championship-caliber team.
As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, the Lions are also looking ahead to future extensions for other key players, including 2022 first-round pick Aidan Hutchinson, who is expected to command a significant contract as well. The Lions have made it clear that keeping their core players is a priority, and with Joseph now secured, they can focus on building around him and the other emerging stars on the roster.
In summary, Kerby Joseph's new contract not only highlights his exceptional talent and contributions to the Lions but also marks a pivotal moment in the franchise's ongoing efforts to establish a winning culture and compete for championships in the coming years. As the team gears up for the next season, all eyes will be on how they can leverage this new contract to further strengthen their roster and pursue their Super Bowl aspirations.
