Detroit Lions safety Kerby Joseph has been making a name for himself as one of the most aggressive and ball-hungry players on the field. However, with that aggressive style has come some criticism. Joseph has been labeled by some as a “dirty player,” a tag that he fiercely rejects. In a recent interview, the 2024 First-Team All-Pro made it clear how he feels about these accusations.
Kerby Joseph Defends His Playstyle
Joseph’s defense of his playing style came after a few high-profile hits had some fans questioning his methods. Addressing those who had called him a dirty player, Joseph didn’t hold back.
“I don’t care about nobody’s opinion, for real. … This is football. When you sign up to play this game, you sign up for injuries. … The people complaining about dirty hits—they just soft. They don’t know football. I feel like I got that narrative because old boy (Matthew Stafford) wanted to come and talk crazy because he mic’d up.”
Joseph’s words are a direct reference to his hit on then-quarterback Matthew Stafford in 2023, a hit that had some fans and analysts criticizing his intentions. However, Joseph believes the narrative around him being dirty is rooted in his aggressive style rather than malicious intent.
Joseph’s Aggressive Style and Passion for the Game
Kerby Joseph has never shied away from the physical aspects of football, and his playstyle reflects that. Known for his ability to make game-changing interceptions and hard-hitting tackles, Joseph’s passion and intensity have made him one of the top safeties in the NFL. His ability to take the ball away from opponents was a key factor in his recognition as a First-Team All-Pro in 2024.
For Joseph, the passion he brings to the field is not about playing dirty, but about being a difference-maker. His comment about Stafford being “mic’d up” seems to imply that the criticisms stemmed from his hit during a game when emotions were running high.
The Lions’ Defense: Built on Aggression
Joseph’s statement also sheds light on the broader philosophy of the Lions’ defense, under the leadership of defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn. The Lions’ defense has earned a reputation for its physicality, with players like Joseph and rookie standout Brian Branch playing key roles. The defense’s ability to disrupt plays and force turnovers has helped propel the team to success in 2024, as they secured the No. 1 seed in the NFC.
While Joseph’s style may rub some people the wrong way, there’s no denying the impact he’s had for the Lions. His 2024 season, leading the league with nine interceptions, speaks for itself. And as the Lions prepare for their postseason run, Joseph remains confident in his ability to be a key difference-maker on the field.
The Bottom Line: Aggression, Not Malice
At the end of the day, Kerby Joseph wants to be known for one thing: his relentless pursuit of excellence. As he heads into the playoffs with the Detroit Lions, Joseph is determined to prove that his style of play, though aggressive, is far from dirty. It’s a mindset that’s taken the Lions to new heights in 2024, and it’s a mindset that Joseph isn’t backing down from anytime soon.
As the Lions look to make a deep playoff run, don’t expect Joseph to change his approach. He’s been playing hard since day one, and if anything, he’s only getting started.
