The Detroit Lions may be coming off a franchise-best 15-2 season, but this offseason has brought some major changes—starting with the coaching staff. With Ben Johnson (Chicago Bears) and Aaron Glenn (New York Jets) landing head coaching jobs, the Lions have turned to John Morton (OC) and Kelvin Sheppard (DC) to fill those roles.
Morton, a Michigan native, has experience as an offensive coordinator with the Jets (2017) and USC under Pete Carroll. His impact on Jared Goff and Detroit’s high-powered offense will be a key storyline in 2025. Meanwhile, Sheppard, who has been with the team since 2021, takes over a defense that showed flashes of dominance but needs reinforcements, particularly in the pass rush.
Key Free Agency Moves & Draft Plans
The Lions signed CB D.J. Reed to replace Carlton Davis, who may be too expensive to retain.
Levi Onwuzurike, Kevin Zeitler, and Tim Patrick are also set to hit free agency.
Pass rush remains a top priority, with Detroit potentially looking to draft or trade for a veteran like Trey Hendrickson.
With seven draft picks, including No. 28 overall, the Lions have options. Whether they add a premier edge rusher or trade their first-rounder for an established star, it’s clear Detroit is all-in on keeping its championship window open.
Breaking Down the Bears’ Rival: Lions Unveil Revamped Coaching Staff
