Kerby Joseph’s Pro Bowl Snub Despite Leading the League in Interceptions
The Detroit Lions had a spectacular performance in Week 18, securing a dominant 31-9 victory over the Minnesota Vikings. The win not only capped off an impressive regular season but also clinched the NFC North title and the top seed in the NFC. As the Lions sent seven players to the Pro Bowl, their success was undeniable. However, one glaring omission left fans and analysts puzzled: standout safety, Kerby Joseph.
Leading the League in Interceptions
Despite his remarkable achievements, including leading the NFL with nine interceptions, Kerby Joseph was snubbed from the Pro Bowl roster. The Lions’ free safety had an outstanding year, but his omission was a hard pill to swallow, especially considering the recognition given to his teammate, strong safety Brian Branch, who earned a Pro Bowl spot.
Richard Sherman’s Reaction
Former NFL defensive back Richard Sherman was quick to voice his disbelief over Joseph’s exclusion. “I cannot believe that! That’s sick. It’s silly,” Sherman expressed passionately via Up & Adams on X. He went on to emphasize the importance of such recognition, especially for a player who has excelled at the highest level. “If you get nine interceptions in the NFL, you’ve got to be an All-Pro. He’s one of the best at his position… If they leave him out, I don’t know how they’re voting for these things,” Sherman added emphatically.
The Pro Bowl Selections: Deserving Candidates
It’s important to note that the safeties selected for the Pro Bowl this season all had exceptional campaigns. Green Bay Packers’ free safety, Xavier McKinney, finished second in interceptions with eight, adding a strong all-around performance that included 88 tackles, one sack, and 11 passes defended. Despite Joseph’s league-leading interceptions, McKinney’s stats earned him the Pro Bowl nod.
Also, Joseph’s teammate, Brian Branch, represented Detroit’s defensive backfield with an impressive 109 total tackles, one sack, four interceptions, and 16 passes defended. Branch’s impressive performance in his second year in the league earned him a well-deserved Pro Bowl selection.
Meanwhile, Arizona Cardinals’ strong safety Budda Baker arguably had the best season of his eight-year career, recording 164 total tackles, 95 solo stops, two sacks, and five passes defended.
Kerby Joseph’s Stats: A Stellar Campaign
Although Joseph didn’t receive the Pro Bowl recognition, his statistics speak volumes. He tallied 83 total tackles, 12 passes defended, and led the NFL with nine interceptions, one of which was returned for a touchdown. His stellar performance was crucial to the Lions’ defense, and his omission left many wondering how the selection process works.
A Disappointment, but Bigger Goals Ahead
Lions’ defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn also expressed his surprise at Joseph’s exclusion, subtly hinting that the safety’s reputation as a hard-hitting player may have played a role. Despite the personal setback, Joseph remains focused on the bigger picture. With the Lions earning a first-round bye in the playoffs, their sights are set on a deep postseason run. A Super Bowl victory would not only lift the team’s spirits but would also go a long way toward making up for the disappointment of the Pro Bowl snub.
Conclusion: A Strong Season, But The Ultimate Goal Remains
While the Pro Bowl snub was a bitter pill for Kerby Joseph to swallow, it’s clear that his performance this season was nothing short of exceptional. With a high number of interceptions and key contributions to the Lions’ defense, Joseph is undoubtedly one of the best safeties in the league. And while personal recognition is important, the ultimate goal remains clear: a Super Bowl title for the Lions, which would undoubtedly make up for any Pro Bowl disappointment.
