Kerby Joseph Defies the Narrative: A Defensive Leader Rising Above Criticism

The “Dirty Player” Label: Kerby Joseph Responds

Detroit Lions safety Kerby Joseph has faced his share of backlash, earning an undeserved reputation as a “dirty player” in the NFL. This label gained traction following a controversial hit during the 2024 playoffs that sidelined Rams tight end Tyler Higbee with a torn ACL. Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford fueled the fire by calling Joseph “dirty as f**k” during a mic’d-up moment. Despite the chatter, Joseph remains unfazed.

“I don’t care about anybody’s opinion, for real,” Joseph told Ari Meirov of The 33rd Team. “This is football. When you sign up to play this game, you sign up for injuries. The people complaining about dirty hits—they’re just soft. They don’t know football.”

Joseph’s words underscore his belief that his aggressive playstyle is part of the game’s inherent physicality, not a sign of unsportsmanlike conduct.

A Standout Season Amid Criticism

Despite the noise, Joseph let his performance on the field do the talking. In his third NFL season, he recorded a league-leading nine interceptions and achieved career highs in nearly every defensive category. His remarkable contributions earned him a spot on the All-Pro team, yet he was controversially snubbed from the Pro Bowl roster.

While fans and analysts debated his exclusion, Joseph kept his focus on the bigger picture: helping the Lions secure success in the postseason.

Key to Detroit’s Defensive Strength

Joseph’s contributions have been integral to the Lions’ rise as a defensive powerhouse. With his ball-hawking skills, hard-hitting tackles, and relentless energy, he has become a cornerstone of Detroit’s secondary. Coaches and teammates praise his leadership and tenacity, recognizing his role in the team’s achievements.

Interestingly, despite his aggressive style, Joseph has never been fined or suspended in his career—a testament to his ability to play hard while staying within the rules.

Eyes on the Prize: Playoff Aspirations

As the Lions prepare to face the red-hot Washington Commanders in the divisional round, Joseph’s presence will be critical. Detroit, the NFC’s No. 1 seed, has built its success on a strong defensive foundation, even in the absence of some key players.

Joseph’s ability to disrupt plays and lead by example could be the deciding factor in the Lions’ playoff run. With his unwavering confidence and impressive trajectory, the former Illinois standout is poised to continue proving his critics wrong.

A Defensive Star on the Rise

In just three seasons, Kerby Joseph has established himself as a defensive leader and rising star in the NFL. While the “dirty player” narrative lingers in some circles, his performance and character paint a different picture. Football is a sport that demands intensity, and Joseph delivers it without hesitation.

As the playoffs unfold, Joseph and the Lions have their sights set on the ultimate goal. His journey serves as a reminder that resilience, focus, and undeniable talent can silence even the harshest critics.