Lions Sign Kerby Joseph to Record $86 Million Deal

Detroit, MI — The Detroit Lions have locked in safety Kerby Joseph with a record-setting contract extension worth $86 million over four years, making him the highest-paid safety in NFL history. The deal was confirmed on Wednesday, following a standout season in which Joseph led the league with nine interceptions.

Joseph’s annual salary of $21.5 million surpasses the previous record held by Tampa Bay Buccaneers safety, who had an $84.1 million contract. The 24-year-old was initially set to earn $3.621 million in the final year of his rookie deal this season.

“I feel like I’m the best safety in the NFL,” Joseph stated during an appearance on The Jim Rome Show this offseason. “And I’m always going to strive to continue to be the best.” His performance last season included 83 tackles and 12 passes defensed, earning him first-team All-Pro honors, despite not being selected for the Pro Bowl.

Joseph was drafted in the third round of the 2022 NFL Draft from the University of Illinois, and he quickly established himself as a key player. He recorded 247 combined tackles, 17 interceptions, and 31 passes defensed over his first three seasons. Joseph’s rise to stardom began as a backup but he became a starter after Tracy Walker was injured, leading to significant contributions on the field.

The Lions have focused on strengthening their roster, previously signing high-profile deals with quarterback Jared Goff, wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown, and offensive tackle Penei Sewell. With Joseph’s extension, attention now turns to defensive end Aidan Hutchinson and potential further contract negotiations.