Lions’ Kerby Joseph Defends Reputation After Pro Bowl Snub

DETROIT, Mich. — Detroit Lions safety Kerby Joseph has faced criticism and accusations of being a “dirty player” following injuries to tight ends Tyler Higbee and T.J. Hockenson last season. Despite leading fan voting for the Pro Bowl, Joseph fell short of securing a spot after votes from players and coaches were tallied.

Joseph, who was named a first-team All-Pro instead, addressed the controversy during a recent podcast appearance. “I don’t care about nobody’s opinion, for real,” Joseph said. “This is football. When you sign up to play this game, you sign up for injuries. … The people complaining about dirty hits — they just soft. They don’t know football.”

The safety also referenced a mic’d-up clip featuring former Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford, now with the Los Angeles Rams, who called Joseph “dirty as f***” during a game. “I feel like I got that narrative because old boy (Matthew Stafford) wanted to come and talk crazy because he mic’d up,” Joseph added.

Neither of Joseph’s hits on Higbee or Hockenson resulted in penalties or fines. Hockenson, who played with Joseph in Detroit, defended his former teammate. “I know Kerby pretty well. I’ve played with him. I don’t necessarily think it was [intended to injure],” Hockenson said. “You go back on the tape and you see what happened. I don’t think it was [intentional].”

Joseph’s Pro Bowl snub has raised eyebrows, as his performance metrics surpassed those of other safeties in the league. While the exact reason for his exclusion remains unclear, the “dirty player” label may have influenced the voting process. Despite the setback, Joseph remains focused on his achievements, including his All-Pro recognition.