By Sunday 
Detroit’s GM Eyes an Extension for the All-Pro Safety Who Embodies the Team’s Philosophy
Detroit Lions General Manager Brad Holmes has transformed the team with his proven strategy: draft, develop, re-sign, and strategically use free agency. This approach has built a competitive roster anchored by homegrown talent, such as Penei Sewell, Amon-Ra St. Brown, and Alim McNeill. Now, Holmes’ attention shifts to Kerby Joseph, a standout safety drafted in 2022.
Joseph has become a pivotal player in Detroit’s defense. Leading the NFL with nine interceptions in the 2024 season, he earned First-Team All-Pro honors—the first Lions safety to do so since Yale Lary in 1962. His stats also include 83 tackles and 12 passes defended, solidifying his reputation as one of the league’s best young safeties.
Holmes expressed admiration for Joseph during his end-of-season press conference. “He’s an All-Pro player, and he’s only gotten better and better,” Holmes noted. As Joseph enters the final year of his rookie contract, Holmes hinted that an extension is a priority. “We haven’t had intense dialogue yet, but obviously we want to keep the good players here.”
Joseph’s unique skill set as both a ball hawk and a reliable tackler makes him invaluable. Holmes highlighted this rare combination, saying, “It’s hard to find ballhawk guys that will tackle like how he does, and that’s what makes him special.” These attributes not only bolster the defense but also align perfectly with the Lions’ culture.
The young safety has already achieved milestones comparable to legends like Ed Reed, becoming the first safety since 2004 to record four interceptions in each of his first three seasons. Such consistency underscores his importance to the Lions’ future and their quest to build a dominant defense.
Holmes’ philosophy revolves around rewarding players who embody the team’s values, and Joseph exemplifies that standard. “He fits our culture,” Holmes emphasized. His leadership on and off the field is critical to maintaining the strong foundation the Lions have built.
Securing Joseph with a long-term extension would further solidify Detroit’s defense and affirm Holmes’ commitment to sustaining a winning culture. As Holmes has shown, the Lions’ resurgence isn’t just about talent—it’s about creating a team identity built to last.