Kerby Joseph knee injury analysis: What's next for Lions' star?

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Kerby Joseph had a breakout season in 2024 when he earned First-team All-Pro honors after leading the NFL with nine interceptions. However, Joseph suffered a knee injury in 2025 which limited him to just six games.

For my full detailed article exploring Kerby Joseph's knee injury, find it at JimmyLiaoMD.com​

Here are some excerpts from the article:

What is the main concern?​

The main concern and suspicion is Joseph has significant damage to the articular cartilage of the knee - specifically to the tibia and/or femur, with the patella also a possibility. The articular cartilage is the slick surface that coats the bones and allows joints to glide smoothly. - Jimmy Liao MD

Why was Kerby Joseph not put on IR initially?​

Medical likely felt he had a chance to return within 4-6 weeks. Cartilage effects and recovery are difficult to forecast. With a star player, carrying him on the active roster is worth it even if it only saves a single game. The Lions have had healthy inactives every game so the gameday impact was minimal. - Jimmy Liao MD

With Kerby Joseph set to miss 6th straight game, why was he not put on IR? 5 possible reasons...

#1: Recovery may have been projected to be in the range of 4-8 weeks. IR mandates a 4 game absence which means a 5-week return to play. If the IR stint starts before the bye (like it… pic.twitter.com/C2hLEGF0Kc

— Jimmy Liao MD | Detroit Lions Morning Rounds (@JimmyLiaoMD) November 26, 2025

What is the long-term prognosis?​

If this is cartilage damage, the prognosis is highly variable and difficult to predict. The loss of cartilage can lead to a “degenerative” knee or arthritic-type symptoms. The disability is largely due to the discomfort of joint movement which is not something that can be measured. - Jimmy Liao MD

Joseph candidly told reporters about his injury status in November.

"My knee messed up. You don't fix it. You just keep the faith," Joseph said.

In his four years in the NFL, Joseph has accumulated 20 interceptions and is on pace for a Hall-of-Fame career. Hopefully, his knee will heal up this offseason so he can continue the stellar path he is on.

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This article originally appeared on Lions Wire: Kerby Joseph knee injury analysis: What's next for Lions' star?

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