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Lions Safety Defends His Playing Style Amid Criticism Following Playoff Hit
Addressing the Controversy
Detroit Lions All-Pro safety Kerby Joseph is pushing back against critics labeling him a “dirty” player after a controversial tackle during last season’s Wild Card game against the Los Angeles Rams. Joseph’s low hit on Rams tight end Tyler Higbee resulted in a serious injury, drawing harsh reactions, especially from Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford, who sarcastically called it a “good hit.” The incident quickly spread across social media, fueling debates about Joseph’s playing style.
Joseph’s Unfiltered Response
Appearing on NFL Spotlight, Joseph made it clear he has no regrets about how he plays the game. “I don’t really care about nobody’s opinion, for real,” Joseph stated. “I’m going to tackle how I tackle. I’m going to get them down how I get them down. Because the moment I hesitate, the moment I second-guess myself … that’s when I get hurt.” He emphasized that injuries are part of football, adding, “The people complaining about dirty hits, they just soft. They don’t know football.” Joseph believes the criticism stemmed largely from Stafford’s comments, suggesting, “I feel like I got that narrative because old boy wanted to come and talk crazy because he mic’d up.”
Proving His Value on the Field
Despite the controversy, Joseph has proven himself as a key defensive asset for the Lions. In his third NFL season, he led the league with nine interceptions and ranked third on the team with 83 total tackles. His standout performance earned him a 1st-Team All-Pro selection, though he was notably snubbed from the Pro Bowl. Joseph’s aggressive, ball-hawking style has been instrumental in the Lions’ defensive resurgence.
Support from NFL Veterans
While some fans continue to question Joseph’s playing style, he has supporters within the football community. A legendary NFL defender has publicly backed Joseph, reinforcing that his approach to the game aligns with the sport’s physical nature. As the Lions prepare for their next challenge, Joseph remains focused on contributing to the team’s success and silencing critics through his performance on the field.