Tashard Choice didn’t plan on becoming a coach after his playing days ended. In fact, he gave broadcasting a shot first. But everything changed when former NFL QB Jon Kitna asked him to help coach a high school 7-on-7 team. One kid immediately connected with Choice, took his advice, and came back the next week ready to improve. That moment, Choice said, was when the coaching bug bit him for good.
Fast-forward to 2025, and Choice is now running the Detroit Lions’ running back room—a talented group led by Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery. For Choice, it’s more than just another job. He coached Gibbs back at Georgia Tech and now gets a second chance to guide the star back at the pro level.
“He’s one of the smartest backs I’ve ever coached,” Choice said, adding he plans to coach Gibbs even harder this time around.
It’s not just Gibbs that makes this gig special for Choice. Defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard, a close friend and former teammate from their NFL days, is also on staff. The two talk daily and have built a strong culture of holding each other accountable.
Choice says the running back room is already stacked thanks to former coach Scottie Montgomery’s foundation, but he’s focused on sharpening the details. The standard is high, and the players have been open to the challenge.
As training camp approaches, expect some fiery moments between Choice and Sheppard—they’ve got a long history, and the trash talk is all part of the motivation.
“We push each other,” Choice said. “And if I’m wrong, he’ll tell me. That’s just how we work.”
Tashard Choice Reunites With Gibbs, Brings Energy to Lions’ RB Room
