As the Detroit Lions continue to dominate the NFL with a 12-1 record, much of the credit for their success goes to defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn. The Lions' defense has exceeded expectations this season, even with multiple injuries, and Glenn's ability to maintain a top-tier defense has made him one of the most sought-after candidates for a head coaching role in the upcoming NFL hiring cycle.
Aaron Glenn's Confidence in Kelvin Sheppard
While Glenn’s future is up in the air, he is already thinking about the long-term future of the Lions defense, and according to a recent statement, he has identified one potential in-house successor: linebackers coach Kelvin Sheppard.
“That’s a guy that I’ve been actually mentoring to be in the DC role at some point,” Glenn said as quoted by Dave Birkett. “And I think he’s damn near close if not ready to do that. And he’s a damn good coach.”
Sheppard's Fire and Intensity Makes Him a Standout
Sheppard, who has been with the Lions since 2021, has earned praise for his fiery and passionate approach to coaching the linebackers. Glenn emphasized the qualities that make Sheppard stand out, particularly his leadership and intensity, which are essential for success in such a pivotal coaching role.
“He’s fiery, everything that you need as a linebacker coach, he’s that,” Glenn explained. “There are certain coaches on the staff that I think have to be bulldogs, and he’s one of those coaches at that position, along with D-line, O-line, and running back. You have to be a fricking bulldog, and he does a good job of that.”
The Future of the Lions Defense
With Sheppard's potential and Glenn's guidance, the Lions may already have a candidate ready to step in and continue the defense's success should Glenn make the jump to a head coaching role in the near future. For now, the Lions' focus remains on winning this season, but Glenn’s forward-thinking approach to the defense's future speaks volumes about his leadership and vision for the team’s long-term success.
