The Detroit Lions made headlines on Wednesday by securing one of their top defensive stars for the long haul. Safety Kerby Joseph, fresh off a spectacular All-Pro campaign, has officially agreed to a four-year, $86 million contract extension—making him the highest-paid safety in NFL history.
The #Lions and All-Pro S Kerby Joseph reached agreement on a massive new extension to make him the highest paid safety in NFL history, sources say.
He gets a 4-year, $86M deal — $21.5M per year — in contract done by @AgentLouisBing. A big-time star in Detroit cashes in. pic.twitter.com/NWu9nmKolm
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) April 23, 2025
It’s a major move for both Joseph and the Lions, as the former third-round pick out of Illinois continues to cement his status as one of the NFL’s elite at his position.
A Huge Payday, But an Even Bigger Statement
Joseph’s 2024 season was nothing short of electric. Despite being snubbed from the Pro Bowl, the playmaking safety racked up 83 tackles, 12 passes defensed, and a league-leading nine interceptions—earning him First-Team All-Pro honors from the Associated Press.
Those numbers weren’t just impressive—they were historic. And now, the Lions are making sure he stays in Honolulu Blue for the foreseeable future.
This extension doesn’t just reward past performance—it’s a clear message that Detroit is investing in its young, homegrown core as it eyes another deep playoff run.
Why This Matters for Detroit’s Super Bowl Window
Joseph becomes the latest foundational piece that GM Brad Holmes and head coach Dan Campbell have committed to, joining names like Amon-Ra St. Brown, Penei Sewell, and Alim McNeill who’ve already landed their own lucrative deals.
With big decisions still looming on other rising stars—like Jameson Williams and Aidan Hutchinson—the Lions are choosing to build around their best, and Joseph has absolutely earned his spot in that group.
The Bottom Line
Kerby Joseph went from a third-round pick to a defensive centerpiece—and now, he’s being paid like it. The Lions aren’t just hoping to remain contenders—they’re building a sustainable winner by rewarding the right guys.
Don’t be surprised if this move helps unlock an even bigger year from the star safety in 2025.