Detroit Lions general manager Brad Holmes hinted at a major contract extension for safety Kerby Joseph during his season-ending press conference, following Joseph’s exceptional performance in his third year.
Head coach Dan Campbell had challenged Joseph to step up, and the young safety delivered, leading the league with nine interceptions, earning a First-Team All-Pro nod, and receiving Pro Football Focus’ top safety grade.
Joseph, a third-round pick in 2022, is approaching the final year of his rookie deal, making his extension a key offseason focus. Holmes expressed admiration for Joseph, describing him as integral to the team’s culture and defensive success.
“That’s on the docket, in terms of to be looked at and discussed,” Holmes said. “We know where he’s at from an eligibility standpoint. I mean, he’s an All-Pro player. I don’t know how you don’t make the Pro Bowl with nine interceptions. He’s proven he’s a Detroit Lion. It’s hard to find ball-hawk guys who tackle like he does. Obviously, we want to keep the good players here.”
The safety market has recently been set by stars like Tampa Bay’s Antoine Winfield ($21M annually) and Derwin James ($19.1M). Spotrac projects Joseph’s potential contract at four years and $92.89 million ($23.2M annually), potentially making him the NFL’s highest-paid safety.
Holmes, while noncommittal about specifics, emphasized the Lions’ commitment to rewarding core players, signaling Joseph is next in line for a well-deserved payday.
