Detroit Lions safety Kerby Joseph, a standout player in the 2024 NFL season, surprisingly did not make the Pro Bowl roster despite leading the league with nine interceptions. While the Lions celebrated a record-tying seven Pro Bowl selections, Joseph’s absence raised questions about the fairness of the selection process.
Joseph has been a defensive powerhouse, holding opponents to a league-best 25.4 passer rating when targeted and allowing just a 40% catch rate. His performance includes 12 catches allowed on 30 targets across 633 coverage snaps, making him one of the most dominant defensive backs this season.
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I saw the list, and it’s crazy, but I’m not upset,” Joseph said. “My boy [Brian Branch] made it, and that makes me happy. I’m focused on something bigger the Super Bowl.
Did reputation cost Kerby Joseph the Pro Bowl?
Despite finishing first in fan voting for NFC free safety, Joseph was passed over for Green BayPackers safety Xavier McKinney. Pro Bowl selections rely on a combination of votes from fans, players, and coaches, and Joseph’s exclusion sparked speculation about external factors.
Defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn hinted that Joseph’s reputation may have influenced the decision, referencing controversial low hits from the previous season that led to criticism from some players. “We all know why he wasn’t picked,” Glenn said cryptically.
Brian Branch, one of the Lions‘ three selected safeties, expressed his disbelief. “Kerby should be there instead of me. He’s the interception leader. But All-Pro is what really matters, and I believe he’ll get first-team All-Pro.”
Eyes on a bigger prize
For Joseph, individual accolades like the Pro Bowl pale in comparison to his ultimate goals. He aims to secure All-Pro honors and help lead the Lions to their first Super Bowl victory. “All-Pro is the real recognition,” Joseph said.
Coming off a two-interception game against the San Francisco 49ers, Joseph’s determination remains unwavering. His teammates and coaches agree that the Pro Bowl snub will only fuel his fire as the Lions prepare for a playoff run.
He doesn’t need external motivation,” Glenn said. “He knows he’s an elite player, and his play speaks for itself.
With Week 18 and the playoffs on the horizon, Joseph is poised to let his performance do the talking, proving why he’s one of the NFL’s best safeties.
