Kerby Joseph Leads NFL with 24 Interceptions, Sets League Record
Detroit Lions safety Kerby Joseph has cemented his place in NFL history by finishing the season with a staggering 24 interceptions, leading the league and setting a new single-season record. The 23-year-old defensive standout has been a game-changer for the Lions, showcasing exceptional instincts, athleticism, and ball-hawking ability throughout the year.
Joseph’s incredible performance has been a cornerstone of the Lions’ success this season, helping the team secure a playoff berth and earn respect as one of the most formidable defenses in the league. His record-breaking feat surpasses the previous single-season interception mark of 14, held jointly by Dick “Night Train” Lane (1952) and several others over decades.
“Kerby’s season has been nothing short of extraordinary,” Lions head coach Dan Campbell said after Sunday’s season finale. “He’s a player who thrives on preparation and seizes every opportunity. The way he’s impacted our defense, you can’t ask for more from a player.”
Joseph’s 24th interception came during the Lions’ Week 18 victory against the Minnesota Vikings, where he picked off quarterback Kirk Cousins in the fourth quarter to seal the game. The play was a fitting conclusion to a season filled with highlight-reel moments, including multiple multi-interception games and clutch takeaways in critical situations.
Drafted in the third round of the 2022 NFL Draft out of Illinois, Joseph has quickly risen to prominence as one of the league’s premier safeties. His ability to read quarterbacks, anticipate routes, and make acrobatic plays on the ball has earned him accolades from teammates, coaches, and opponents alike.
“Kerby’s work ethic and football IQ are off the charts,” said Lions defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn. “What he’s done this year is a testament to his dedication and natural talent. He’s the kind of player every coach dreams of having.”
Joseph’s record-setting season has also put him in strong contention for the NFL Defensive Player of the Year award, further solidifying his status as one of the game’s brightest young stars. Beyond the accolades, his impact on the Lions’ defense has been transformative, turning a once-maligned unit into a turnover-forcing machine.
As the Lions prepare for their playoff run, Joseph’s leadership and playmaking ability will be pivotal. With his historic season now etched into the record books, Kerby Joseph has firmly established himself as a cornerstone of the Lions’ future and one of the NFL’s elite defenders.