### Lions' All-Pro Safety Kerby Joseph Placed on Injured Reserve, Ending Season The Detroit Lions have officially placed All-Pro safety Kerby Joseph on injured reserve due to a persistent knee injury that has plagued him throughout the season. This decision comes just one day before the Lions are set to face the Pittsburgh Steelers at Ford Field, effectively ending Joseph's season after he managed to play only six games this year. Joseph, who was a standout player in 2024, leading the NFL in interceptions, has been sidelined since Week 6 and has not participated in any games since then. The Lions also made additional roster moves, activating guard Christian Mahogany from the injured list and elevating offensive lineman Kingsley Eguakun and tight end Giovanni Ricci from the practice squad to bolster their lineup for the upcoming game against Pittsburgh [https://www.wtae.com/article/kerby-joseph-injury/69827872, https://www.fox2detroit.com/sports/lions-place-all-pro-safety-kerby-joseph-injured-reserve-nagging-knee-injury, https://www.ironmountaindailynews.com/sports/local-sports/2025/12/lions-place-all-pro-safety-kerby-joseph-on-injured-reserve]. ### Overview of the Situation and Team Adjustments 1. **Injury Status**: Kerby Joseph has been placed on injured reserve due to a nagging knee injury that has kept him out of action since Week 6. 2. **Impact on the Team**: Joseph's absence is significant as he was a key defensive player and the NFL's interceptions leader in 2024. 3. **Roster Changes**: The Lions activated guard Christian Mahogany and elevated two players from the practice squad to fill the gaps left by Joseph's injury. 4. **Upcoming Matchup**: The Lions are preparing to face the Pittsburgh Steelers, who are currently leading the AFC North. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **Joseph's Performance**: In 2024, Kerby Joseph led the NFL in interceptions, showcasing his importance to the Lions' defense. - **Injury Timeline**: Joseph has missed eight consecutive games due to his knee injury, which initially occurred during training camp. - **Team Adjustments**: The Lions' recent roster moves include: - Activation of guard Christian Mahogany from injured reserve. - Elevation of offensive lineman Kingsley Eguakun and tight end Giovanni Ricci from the practice squad [https://apnews.com/article/lions-kerby-joseph-injured-reserve-495c965ca003d503fab18e5b54c92bf0, https://www.mlive.com/lions/2025/12/lions-place-all-pro-safety-on-injured-reserve-activate-key-o-lineman.html]. ### Conclusion and Implications for the Lions In summary, the Detroit Lions have made a critical decision to place All-Pro safety Kerby Joseph on injured reserve, effectively ending his season due to a persistent knee injury. This move not only impacts the team's defensive capabilities but also necessitates adjustments in their roster as they prepare for a crucial game against the Pittsburgh Steelers. The Lions will need to rely on their activated players to step up in Joseph's absence, as they aim to maintain their competitive edge in the league. 1. **Joseph's Injury**: His placement on IR marks the end of a challenging season for the player and the team. 2. **Team Strategy**: The Lions are making strategic roster changes to adapt to Joseph's absence. 3. **Upcoming Challenges**: Facing the Steelers will test the Lions' depth and resilience without one of their top defenders [https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/lions-place-key-starter-ir-225718044.html, https://www.macombdaily.com/2025/12/20/lions-place-all-pro-db-on-injured-reserve-activate-starting-o-lineman].