Detroit Lions safety Kerby Joseph has established himself as one of the NFL's top defensive backs, but his coaches believe he might have another position waiting for him if football ever takes an unexpected turn.

According to a report by beat writer Jeremy Reisman of the Detroit Lions, safeties coach Jim O'Neil recently highlighted Joseph's involvement during practices. 

“Source: Lions safeties coach Jim O'Neil on Kerby Joseph helping out during practices: 'If you ask Kerby, before he retires he's going to be a backup quarterback somewhere in the NFL,'” Reisman reported on June 18. 

The light-hearted comment was made in reference to Joseph's habit of helping out during practice sessions. It also reflects the confidence and energy he brings to the field despite spending much of the offseason recovering. 

Joseph has been a cornerstone of Detroit's defense since the Lions drafted him in the third round of the 2022 NFL Draft. In 2024, he recorded a league-high nine interceptions. That kind of production also earned him First-Team All-Pro honors.

But in 2025, Joseph played just six games as he aggravated a chronic knee injury during the Lions' loss to the Kansas City Chiefs.

According to a report by The Athletic, Joseph has continued to make progress since his knee surgery. As Joseph continues his recovery, head coach Dan Campbell couldn’t provide much reassurance regarding his expectations for Joseph ahead of this season. 

“Yeah, really, I don’t know,” Campbell said. “I honestly do not know.”

Beyond his production on the field, the 25-year-old has developed into one of the team's most respected leaders, and the Lions have been cautious with his workload during offseason practices.

With less workload, Joseph's personality plays a crucial role for the coaches and players. But the Lions are primarily focused on getting him back on the field.

Lions remain confident about Kerby Joseph’s recovery

Joseph, who missed 11 games, has sparked questions since he underwent knee surgery earlier this year, but the franchise remains hopeful and has shown confidence in his recovery.

According to the Roundtable, the Lions have not viewed Joseph's absence from offseason work as a major setback. Instead, the team has emphasized a careful approach as one of its defensive leaders works through the final stages of rehabilitation.

But at the same time, the team has little reason to rush him back during the offseason. Detroit's priority is to reduce his workload during the offseason so that he recovers once the season begins. 

Joseph’s future remains secured as one of the league's premier safeties, even if O'Neil jokingly sees quarterback potential in him. But for now, the Lions are focused on his recovery and expect him to feature when the season begins.

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Written by

Evince Das

Edited by

Shubhi Rathore