ALLEN PARK — Kerby Joseph’s smile was brighter than the bling he was wearing on Thursday night. Perhaps it was because the ink was still drying on the 4-year, $85 million contract extension.
The deal makes him the highest paid safety in NFL history.
“To see this happen is amazing,’’ Joseph said.
Joseph, the Lions third-round draft pick in 2022, finished the 2024 season with a career and league-leading nine interceptions. The 24-year-old has more picks than anyone in the NFL since he entered the league in 2022.
“It’s everything to me. I feel like it strives toward my goal of one day putting on a gold jacket so I feel this is a huge step, huge, huge milestone in my career and in my life,’’ Joseph said. “… I feel so blessed.’’
While he’s thrilled with the money he said that is not what motivates him.
“I really play this game because I love it,’’ Joseph said. “I have a certain passion for the game.’’