The Detroit Lions saw some major coaching turnover this offseason, losing both coordinators to head coaching gigs. While most eyes are on how Ben Johnson’s departure impacts the offense, don’t sleep on the changes happening on defense.
One of the biggest moves? Promoting Kelvin Sheppard to defensive coordinator. He’s already a familiar face in the locker room, especially for the linebackers — and Jack Campbell couldn’t be happier about it.
Campbell recently opened up about what this change means for him, and it’s clear the bond between player and coach is strong.
“Coach Dan Campbell kept it in-house, and that shows the culture he’s built here,” Campbell said. “Having worked closely with Shep already, I kind of know how he thinks. That’s huge when it comes to preparing each week.”
For a young linebacker like Campbell, that continuity and trust could make a real difference. Knowing how the coordinator approaches game-planning gives Campbell a head start before the ball is even snapped. And as Sheppard puts his own stamp on the defense — adding tweaks and new wrinkles — it’s something the whole unit is excited about.
“There are some changes, and honestly, I’m pumped,” Campbell added. “The guys on the back end, the guys up front — we’re all buying in. It’s different from what Coach Glenn did, but we’ve got the right group to make it work.”
The Lions’ defense in 2025 could be sneaky-good. Aidan Hutchinson is back healthy, the team added reinforcements up front like Tyleik Williams, and the secondary has been upgraded. That foundation, paired with Sheppard’s leadership and Campbell’s steady growth, could take the defense to another level.
Campbell himself took a leap in 2024, racking up 131 tackles, five pass breakups, and a forced fumble. But he’s not satisfied.
“Honestly, I just want to keep doing the little things right,” he said. “Stay consistent. Same routine. Never too high, never too low. That’s how you grow.”
With Sheppard calling the plays and Campbell leading on the field, Detroit’s defense is in solid hands. This could be a fun duo to watch grow together in 2025.
Jack Campbell’s Excitement Over Kelvin Sheppard Says a Lot About Lions’ Defensive Chemistry
