Former Jones star, Kerby Joseph drafted by the Detroit Lions

Updated April 30, 2022 12:25am EDT

Orlando native Kirby Joseph in NFL Draft

Surrounded by friends, family, and former coaches, Jones and Illinois product, Kerby Joseph got the best call of his life.

ORLANDO, Fla. - Surrounded by friends, family, and former coaches, Jones and Illinois product, Kerby Joseph got the best call of his life.

The Detroit Lions selected Joseph 97th overall in the 2022 NFL Draft.

Joseph bounced between wide receiver and defensive back during his first three seasons. But he shined at in the safety position during the 2021 season.

The Orlando native earned first team All-Big Ten honors. With five picks, he tied for second in the nation for interceptions.

Kerby Joseph #DB54 of the Illinois Fighting Illini runs a drill during the NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium on March 06, 2022 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Justin Casterline/Getty Images)