Lions add to secondary with Kerby Joseph late in Round 3
The Detroit Lions selected Illinois safety Kerby Joseph in the third round of the 2022 NFL Draft, No. 97 overall.
Joseph bolstered his draft stock after enjoying a standout campaign in his final year at Illinois. He amassed 57 tackles and five interceptions through 12 appearances last season.
He'll add much-needed depth and competition to Detroit's secondary, which features safeties Tracy Walker and DeShon Elliott, among others.
Joseph is the third defender the Lions selected in the draft - defensive ends Aidan Hutchinson (No. 2) and Josh Paschal (No. 46) were the first two.
Scouting profile: Kerby Joseph
| School | Height | Weight | 40 time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Illinois | 6'1 | 203 | DNP |
Teams looking to add a developmental free safety shouldn't hesitate to make Joseph's phone ring on draft weekend. The Illinois product might not be the most well-rounded safety, but he is a highlight tape in the making as a centerfield-type safety. When the football is in the air, there's a good chance its final destination is Joseph's grasp. With his effortless athleticism and great range, Joseph was able to get his hands on five interceptions last season. Concerns about quarterbacks manipulating him at the next level persist, but Joseph is your typical school-yard safety who can fly to the ball and make splash plays in the process.