Detroit Lions safety Kerby Joseph appears to be stepping back from social media entirely. Early Monday, fans noticed that Joseph had shut down his X account and wiped every photo from his Instagram page.

J oseph had built a sizable online following over the years, often engaging with fans and joking around with commenters. He even chimed in recently when questions arose about his injury status, confirming himself that he wouldn’t suit up that week.

This year has been a difficult one for the 25-year-old defensive back. A lingering knee injury has kept him out for six straight games, an especially frustrating setback after signing a long-term extension that runs through 2029. Head coach Dan Campbell has acknowledged that Joseph may never be completely pain-free, though the young safety has been working tirelessly to strengthen the knee in hopes of returning to the field.

Despite the frustration, Joseph’s mindset remains positive. Speaking with the team’s flagship radio station, he said he wants to get back out there but refuses to dwell on what he can’t control.

“I want to play, of course, but if I can’t go, I can’t be upset about it,” he told Will Burchfield. “I’m grateful just to be here, to be alive. A lot of people out there are dealing with far worse than I am. I’m blessed to still be around the team and have a chance to come back.”

In Joseph’s absence, rookie Thomas Harper has stepped up, and teammate Brian Branch emphasized how well Harper has handled the responsibility. Joseph himself has been mentoring him, encouraging the young safety to stay focused and ignore outside criticism.

“I told him it takes all of us to win,” Joseph said. “He used to be my backup, so I reminded him that things can get tough, but you’ve got to push through it and keep improving. He’s done exactly that, and I’m proud of him.”

Harper intercepted a pass against the Giants and has drawn praise for his steady play on the back end. Joseph shared how happy he was to see Harper make a big play and recalled telling him all week to be ready for opportunities.

“I told him to expect the ball to come his way,” Joseph said. “As a safety, when the ball’s in the air, it’s yours to go get. He did that, and I was thrilled watching him make the play.”