Detroit Lions safety Kerby Joseph responded Thursday to those who are calling him a dirty player.
Joseph has been the target of animosity from fans and players of both the Minnesota Vikings and Los Angeles Rams. His low hits have resulted in torn knee ligaments and season-ending injuries for tight ends T.J. Hockenson and Tyler Higbee.
Matthew Stafford called Joseph dirty for his hit on Higbee in the Wild Card Round of the playoffs on Sunday.
Joseph has seen the accusations and responded by saying he is used to being “the villain.”
Joseph also said he was unsure why Stafford was mad at him. Joseph added that he celebrated after making his tackle before realizing that Higbee had been injured on the play.
Lions head coach Dan Campbell received questions about Joseph and defended the safety.
Lions defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn also defended Joseph’s play.
Joseph has had 163 tackles and 8 interceptions over the last two seasons — not bad for a third-round pick.
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