Detroit Lions Pray for Kerby Joseph After Dr. David Chao Reveals Injury is Worse Than Expected, Risks Early Retirement at 25 and Likely Won't Complete Contract Extension
Detroit, Michigan — Kerby Joseph, the star safety for Detroit Lions, is facing a tremendous challenge after Dr. David Chao, former NFL team doctor, revealed that his injury is much more severe than initially expected. Joseph's cartilage injury could prevent him from playing out his contract extension and may force him to retire from football at an early age.
Dr. Chao stated that Joseph is dealing with a serious issue with his cartilage – a problem that is very difficult to treat. The treatment with stem cells is only a last resort, and even then, the chances of success are uncertain. This has raised concerns within the team and among Lions fans about Joseph’s future.

Joseph’s injury began in week 4 of the 2025 season, during the game against the Cleveland Browns. Although he returned to play, the injury re-aggravated, requiring him to be hospitalized and eventually placed on Injured Reserve in December, ending his season. This situation leaves him facing an indefinite recovery period.
According to Dr. Chao, the likelihood of Joseph completing his contract extension with Detroit Lions could be a “Hail Mary” (a slim chance). The expert did not specify a timeline for Joseph’s return to play, but he believes that continuing his career for the next few years is highly difficult.
Head Coach Dan Campbell acknowledged that managing Joseph’s injury is critical but also not easy. “He embodies everything we stand for,” Campbell said. “To come back to this sport and then find out what it really is — that’s remarkable toughness and commitment.”
This is devastating news not just for Kerby Joseph but also for Detroit Lions as they face an uncertain future regarding the health of this defensive star. The team will need to come up with a long-term plan to address this situation.

While Lions place their trust in Joseph’s recovery, they also understand this is a long and difficult road. Joseph will face a recovery process that requires time, patience, and support from both the team and the fan community.
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