Detroit Lions safety Kerby Joseph is about to trade interceptions for ignition as he gets ready to serve as the grand marshal at this year’s FireKeepers Casino 400 at Michigan International Speedway.
Fresh off a monster contract extension that made him the highest-paid safety in the NFL—a four-year deal worth $86 million—Joseph is now stepping into a new spotlight. On June 8, he’ll deliver the legendary “Drivers, start your engines!” command ahead of the NASCAR Cup Series race, one of the most anticipated events of the summer in Michigan.
MIS president Joe Fowler called it an honor to have Joseph take the role, especially with so many Lions fans expected to show up. And let’s be honest—after the Lions’ historic 15-win season, the Honolulu Blue wave is very real.
Joseph has quickly become a fan favorite in Detroit. He led the league with six interceptions in 2024 and has become known for his community work, hosting youth football camps in both Orlando and Detroit. That hometown connection and crossover appeal make him the perfect fit for this moment.
The FireKeepers Casino 400 will be broadcast nationally on Prime Video and called by none other than Tom Brady, Dale Earnhardt Jr., and Steve Letarte. It’s the 15th race of the NASCAR season and the first of three seeding races for the new In-Season Challenge format.
Football and racing collide next month, and when Kerby Joseph tells those drivers to start their engines, expect the crowd—and the state of Michigan—to erupt.
Kerby Joseph Swaps Cleats for Checkered Flags as FireKeepers 400 Grand Marshal
