In a league where quarterbacks dominate the paychecks and headlines, defensive players often have to claw twice as hard for half the spotlight. But every once in a while, someone flips the script. This offseason, as the NFL world was still catching its breath from the Cincinnati Bengals‘ blockbuster Ja’Marr Chase’s $161 million extension and the Cleveland Browns‘ Myles Garrett’s record-setting raise, the Detroit Lions made their move—one that sent fresh ripples across the league.

Last offseason, the Detroit team witnessed a few blockbuster contract extensions. First, the Lions signed a massive $212 million deal with Jared Goff in 2024. Second, they gave Amon-Ra St. Brown a four-year deal worth $120 million. Then, the Lions inked a $112 million rookie extension with Penei Sewell. And this offseason? The Lions have come up with a massive deal for safety Kerby Joseph this time.

What is Kerby Joseph’s Salary?

On April 23, the Lions handed safety Kerby Joseph a blockbuster deal that not only raised eyebrows, it reset the entire safety market. The Lions and Joseph signed a four-year, $86 million contract extension. That means his AAV will be $21.5 million. By signing the $86 million contract, Joseph broke Antoine Winfield Jr‘s record for the highest ever paid safety in the NFL. The Buccaneers‘ safety had signed an $84.1 million contract in 2024.

The deal includes $52.5 million in guaranteed money, as per initial reports, a substantial leap from Joseph’s rookie contract. His cap hit for the 2025 season is expected to be restructured, with signing bonus provisions that allow Detroit some flexibility as they aim for a deeper playoff run next year.

This is a meteoric rise for Joseph, who was selected by the Lions in the third round of the 2022 NFL Draft (No. 97 overall). Over just three seasons, Joseph emerged as a cornerstone in Detroit’s secondary, known for his range, instincts, and knack for clutch turnovers, especially against high-profile QBs like Aaron Rodgers. The deal came after his fabulous performance in the 2024 season.

In 2024, Joseph had arguably his best season yet, recording:

• 83 total tackles (58 solo)

• 9 interceptions

• 31 passes defended

• 1 touchdown

Not just tackles, but he also made a league-leading nine interceptions and landed one TD in the Packers game on November 4. With that, he received a grade of more than 90 in Pro Football Focus’s analysis. That’s why the record-setting contract isn’t really a surprise, as the safety has earned it. Do you know what his previous contracts and career earnings were? Let’s dive into it.

Joseph’s contracts, career earnings, and endorsements

“He fits our culture. It’s hard to find ballhawk guys that will tackle like he does, and I think that’s what makes him unique, so again, we haven’t had any intense dialogue about that yet, but obviously we want to keep the good players here.” This is what GM Brad Holmes said about Kerby this offseason. 

He earned his first check with the Lions in 2022, when Brad Holmes picked him up in the 3rd round of the 2022 NFL draft. Kerby signed a four-year $5,044,904 rookie deal with the Lions with an AAV of $1,261,226. That’s why his career earnings are $3,651,961. Kerby’s net worth should be more than this amount.

While not as heavily marketed as some skill-position players, Joseph’s increased national profile and his rise as one of the league’s premier safeties has led to a growing endorsement portfolio. As of early 2025:

• He has active regional sponsorships with Meijer, a Midwest-based supermarket chain.

• He also collaborates with Nike Football, wearing their cleats and gloves during games.

• Recent reports suggest Joseph is exploring additional off-season partnerships with sports drink brands and a Detroit-area automotive dealership.

Though endorsement earnings are not publicly disclosed, it’s estimated that Joseph makes between $500,000 and $1 million annually off the field, a figure expected to rise after his record-breaking deal.

From a third-round pick to the highest-paid safety in NFL history, Kerby Joseph’s story is one of quiet dominance and steady growth. Now backed by a massive deal and an even bigger role in Detroit’s resurgence, the Florida native is ready to lead the Lions into a new era. And with his off-field presence growing as well, it’s safe to say—Kerby Joseph isn’t just building a legacy on the field, but a business off it, too.