Detroit Lions Vets Getting Used to New Coaches — But Not Sweating It
The Detroit Lions have gone through a bit of a coaching shuffle this offseason, but according to the players, it’s mostly business as usual.
The big shocker was All-Pro center Frank Ragnow suddenly retiring — that definitely throws a wrench into things. But overall, the team says the core schemes on both offense and defense are staying pretty consistent.
The Lions brought in John Morton as the new offensive coordinator and promoted Kelvin Sheppard to defensive coordinator. Both have big shoes to fill after Ben Johnson and Aaron Glenn left to become head coaches elsewhere.
Veteran players hit the field last week for the first time this offseason to start learning the new plays and systems. On offense, there’s a bit of a learning curve, especially since Johnson’s offense was one of the best in the league the past few years. But quarterback Jared Goff isn’t too worried — he’s worked with Morton before and likes his approach.
“It’s a fun challenge,” Goff said. “We’re learning how each other works. Some stuff’s new, some stuff’s the same. It’s all about finding that rhythm.”
Goff had a stellar 2024 season — nearly 4,630 yards, 37 TDs, and a fifth-place MVP finish — so there’s a high bar to keep that momentum going. He gave Morton a thumbs-up so far: “Johnny’s done a hell of a job.”
While they’ll miss Ragnow and right guard Kevin Zeitler, the rest of the starting offense is back, and the Lions even added more talent through the draft. Young stars like Amon-Ra St. Brown, Jameson Williams, Jahmyr Gibbs, and Sam LaPorta are all expected to take another step forward.
“We want to be better than last year,” Goff said. “We’re learning, growing, and it’s exciting to see.”
Head coach Dan Campbell said it’s really just about fine-tuning things and letting each coach put their own spin on the system.
On defense, Sheppard is bringing serious intensity — and players are responding. Cornerback D.J. Reed, a big offseason signing, praised Sheppard for holding everyone to the same standard, no matter how long they’ve been in the league.
“Shep’s got that alpha energy. He’s clear, he’s direct, and he keeps it simple so we can just play,” Reed said.
Linebacker Jack Campbell, who’s worked under Sheppard for a couple years already, joked that the only change now is “he’s got a mic and he’s in your helmet.”
The team has a little less time to prep this offseason since they’re playing in the Hall of Fame Game against the Chargers on July 31, so it’s extra important to get on the same page fast.
“Shep earned this. The whole defensive staff has. Now it’s on us to keep getting better,” Jack Campbell said.
The Lions have one more open practice this week before they take a break and then regroup in late July for training camp.
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