The Detroit Lions have a big decision coming up with star safety Kerby Joseph. After a couple of solid seasons, he exploded in 2024 and became one of the top defensive backs in the league. At just 24 years old, he finished sixth in Defensive Player of the Year voting—not bad at all.

Even though he’s got a bit of a rep for being a “dirty player,” there’s no denying his talent. And with only a year left on his rookie deal, Detroit needs to start thinking about locking him down long-term.

Here’s the kicker: the Houston Texans just gave Jalen Pitre a three-year, $39 million contract—and Joseph has been way better. So that deal might mess with the negotiations a bit, driving Joseph’s price even higher.

If the Lions want to be smart about this, they need to move quickly. Right now, Joseph only has one elite season under his belt, so Detroit might be able to use that to negotiate a slightly cheaper deal.

A realistic offer? Maybe something like three years, $58 million, with a player option after two. That keeps Joseph among the highest-paid safeties while giving him the flexibility to go for an even bigger payday down the road if he keeps balling out.

Bottom line: Joseph has earned his money, and the longer the Lions wait, the more expensive it’s gonna get. Time to lock him in.