The Detroit Lions have received a significant boost ahead of their upcoming NFL divisional matchup, with All-Pro safety Kerby Joseph cleared to return to practice after spending more than a year recovering from a serious knee injury.
Head coach Dan Campbell and other reports confirmed that the 25-year-old is expected to resume football activities this week, marking an encouraging step forward for one of Detroit’s most important defensive players.
Joseph has been sidelined since suffering the injury against the Kansas City Chiefs last season. He has also been dealing with a degenerative knee condition, making his recovery a lengthy and challenging process.
More help: Lions S Kerby Joseph will return to practice today.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) October 28, 2026
However, the safety has reportedly reached a point where the strength in his injured knee matches that of his healthy knee, allowing him to return to the practice field.
The Lions now have 21 days to activate Joseph, giving the coaching staff time to assess his progress before deciding when he can return to game action.
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Joseph takes important step toward Lions return
Joseph’s return to practice is particularly encouraging given his importance to Detroit’s defense. The former 2022 third-round draft pick appeared in just six games last season, recording 18 total tackles, including 14 solo tackles, and three interceptions.
His impact was even greater during the 2024 campaign, when he led the NFL with nine interceptions and earned first-team All-Pro honors.
Those performances established Joseph as one of the league’s most productive defensive backs, and his eventual return could provide a considerable boost to Detroit’s secondary.
Although he is unlikely to be ready for Sunday’s matchup, getting back onto the practice field represents an important milestone after such an extended absence.
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Lions prepare for undefeated Vikings
Detroit enters Week 8 with a 4-2 record and two consecutive victories, building momentum ahead of a crucial NFC North showdown.
The Lions will host their division rivals, the undefeated Minnesota Vikings, on Sunday in a matchup that could have significant implications for the divisional race.
With the NFC North proving highly competitive, Detroit will be eager to maintain its recent form while continuing to strengthen its defense.
Joseph’s immediate availability remains uncertain, but his progress offers encouragement for the weeks ahead. If he can successfully complete his rehabilitation and return to full fitness, the Lions could eventually welcome back a defensive playmaker capable of making a major difference during the second half of the season.
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