The Detroit Lions have seven games left on their schedule to build some momentum and make a playoff push in an ultra-competitive NFC. They sit at 6-4 on the season, and while the offense has been up-and-down throughout the 2025 campaign, the defense has been getting the job done.
Defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard is the reason for that, and due to his unit's performance, he may earn himself a promotion and be coaching elsewhere in 2026.
Kelvin Sheppard May Spend One Season with the Lions Due to the Defense’s Performance
As we enter Week 12, the Lions are fifth in the NFL in total defense (291.8), eighth in pass defense (192.1), eighth in run defense (99.7), and tied for 10th in scoring defense (21.6).
These numbers are incredibly encouraging and show that Sheppard knows how to get the best out of his players. He has been with the Lions since 2021, holding roles such as outside linebackers coach and linebackers coach before being promoted to defensive coordinator when Aaron Glenn left in the offseason to become the head coach of the New York Jets.
When you consider how this is his first big gig, Sheppard is passing the test with flying colors. The defense has been riddled with injuries to guys like Kerby Joseph, D.J. Reed, Terrion Arnold, Marcus Davenport, and Josh Paschal.
Detroit also had to start the season without defensive tackle Alim McNeill, but that didn't alter its production. The Lions have the next man up mentality, and that's a testament to what Sheppard is instilling in his players.
Sheppard can get his players to not only listen, but also buy into his message. Those traits are enticing to other teams, and it shouldn't be a surprise to see his name thrown in head coaching pools following the season. Whether or not that comes in the NFL or the college ranks will be something to watch.
Following LSU's firing of Brian Kelly, Sheppard's name was immediately floated as a possible replacement. He played his college ball with the Tigers from 2007-2010 and returned as the Director of Player Development for the 2020 season.
When speaking to the media in October, Sheppard said, "Cut me open and I’m a Liger." This added more smoke to the fire, and even if he doesn't head back to LSU, it wouldn't be a surprise to see Sheppard's name thrown in other coaching circles over the next few months.