By Mummy Grace 
Kelvin Sheppard Promoted to Lions Defensive Coordinator, Receives High Praise from Super Bowl-Winning Coach
When Aaron Glenn departed for the New York Jets’ head coaching job, Kelvin Sheppard was the clear favorite to replace him as the Detroit Lions’ defensive coordinator. Glenn had openly acknowledged grooming Sheppard for the role, and Sheppard himself made it clear he was ready when the opportunity arose.
That moment has arrived. Just days after Glenn’s exit, the Lions officially promoted Sheppard from linebackers coach to defensive coordinator.
A Rapid Rise in Coaching
Sheppard’s coaching career has been on a fast track. After playing his final NFL season with Detroit in 2018, he joined Dan Campbell’s staff in 2021 as the outside linebackers coach. By 2022, he was overseeing the entire linebacking unit, with his responsibilities steadily growing.
Campbell has spoken highly of Sheppard, even predicting that he will one day become a head coach. And he’s not the only one who sees Sheppard’s potential.
Super Bowl-Winning DC Steve Spagnuolo Backs Sheppard
Among Sheppard’s biggest supporters is Kansas City Chiefs defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo. Spagnuolo, a four-time Super Bowl champion who will be coaching in his seventh Super Bowl, worked with Sheppard during their time together with the New York Giants in 2016 and 2017.
During a media session leading up to the Super Bowl, Spagnuolo spoke passionately about Sheppard’s intelligence and leadership.
“I love Kelvin Sheppard,” Spagnuolo said, as reported by Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press. “If I could make a projection, I believe he’ll be a head coach in this league. He was one of the smartest players I ever had back in New York, and we were lucky to have him.”
Spagnuolo compared Sheppard to former Giants linebacker Antonio Pierce, now the Las Vegas Raiders’ head coach, praising Sheppard’s ability to rally teammates and his deep understanding of the game.
“You can see it now as a coach. I knew he’d always go into coaching, and he’s going to be a really good one,” Spagnuolo added.
What This Means for Detroit
Sheppard’s promotion ensures continuity for the Lions’ defense, which has been a key part of their recent success. His leadership and familiarity with the players should help maintain the team’s aggressive defensive style.
With endorsements from respected figures like Spagnuolo and the full backing of Dan Campbell, Sheppard has a prime opportunity to prove himself at the next level. If his rapid ascent is any indication, he may not be a coordinator for long—his path to a head coaching role seems all but inevitable.