Coordinator Kelvin Sheppard Doesn’t Envision Major Changes to Lions’ Defense

Coordinator Kelvin Sheppard doesn’t envision major changes to Lions’ defense

ALLEN PARK — As he nears the end of his first season as an NFL defensive coordinator, Kelvin Sheppard doesn’t foresee any significant changes being made to his unit over the upcoming offseason. Sheppard, speaking to the media for the last time this season, said the ebbs and flows of the Detroit Lions’ 2025 season have taught him a lot about what it takes to be a coordinator in this league. The Lions’ defense got off to a hot start against inferi…

Kelvin Sheppard: 'I don't see drastic change' to Lions defense in 2026

Safety Kerby Joseph's absence due to a knee injury has left the Detroit Lions without a key piece to stop the passing game.

Coordinator Kelvin Sheppard doesn't envision major changes to Lions' defense

Kelvin Sheppard Sparks Backlash Among Lions Fans With Latest Remarks

As the Detroit Lions head into the offseason with plenty of questions about the future of the defense, coordinator Kelvin Sheppard made one thing clear: don’t expect a dramatic overhaul of his scheme. Yeah, there have been bumps. The run defense faded late in the year, explosive plays became a real issue, and injuries piled up again. But even with the rough patches, Sheppard says the system itself isn’t broken. “No, I don’t see drastic change,” …