As the Detroit Lions gear up for the start of the 2025 NFL season, optimism around the franchise has never been higher. Coming off a historic playoff run and boasting one of the deepest rosters in the league, the Lions appear poised to take the next step in their pursuit of a Super Bowl. One of the biggest reasons for that belief? Their elite safety unit, led by none other than Kerby Joseph—arguably the best safety in the NFL today.
Joseph’s 2024 campaign was nothing short of spectacular. The third-year defensive back elevated his game to new heights, finishing the season as the NFL’s leader in interceptions. His ball-hawking instincts, range in coverage, and physicality in run support made him an irreplaceable piece of the Lions’ defensive puzzle. In recognition of his breakout season, Joseph was named to the NFL’s First Team All-Pro and subsequently rewarded with a massive four-year contract extension. The deal made him the highest-paid safety in league history—a fitting reward for a player who’s rapidly become the cornerstone of Detroit’s secondary.
But Joseph isn’t doing it alone.
What truly sets the Lions apart is the depth and talent of their entire safety room. While Joseph is the headliner, he’s surrounded by complementary players who bring versatility and leadership to the field. Ifeatu Melifonwu, who made a seamless transition from cornerback to safety, has emerged as a do-it-all defender with the ability to cover tight ends, defend the run, and drop into deep zones. He’s quickly become one of the more underrated defensive backs in the NFL.
The Lions also brought in reinforcements via free agency and the draft. Brian Branch, listed as a nickelback on most depth charts, plays a hybrid safety role and was a revelation in his rookie year. His ability to defend the slot, tackle in space, and read plays before they unfold gives defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn the freedom to get creative with his formations. With Branch in the mix, Detroit can rotate safeties and adjust coverages without losing any effectiveness.
Veteran leadership also adds a layer of reliability to the group. Tracy Walker, a longtime Lion who has overcome injuries and setbacks, continues to provide a steady presence and depth in the secondary. His experience and mentorship are invaluable, especially for the younger players who are still adjusting to the demands of NFL-level play.
Heading into training camp, the Lions’ safety unit is not just deep—it’s dynamic, adaptable, and battle-tested. The group brings a rare combination of youth and experience, explosiveness and discipline. Defensive backs coach Brian Duker will have a wealth of options at his disposal, allowing Detroit to match up effectively with the NFL’s most dangerous passing attacks.
With Kerby Joseph leading the way as one of the league’s premier defensive playmakers, and a cast of versatile contributors behind him, it’s no exaggeration to say the Detroit Lions may have the best group of safeties in the entire NFL. That kind of defensive backbone could be exactly what the team needs to reach the Super Bowl heights fans have long dreamed of.