Detroit Lions DC Kelvin Sheppard to Interview With AFC Team
The Detroit Lions may soon have to fend off outside interest in one of the NFL’s most promising young coaches.
ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler reports that the Miami Dolphins have lined up an in-person interview with Lions defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard on Monday morning for their vacant head coaching position. This meeting represents the first direct, face-to-face discussion and could mark the beginning of a serious pursuit.
Sheppard’s profile has risen quickly around the league following his rapid advancement within Detroit’s coaching staff. A former NFL linebacker, he spent eight seasons as a player, including two years with the Dolphins from 2014 to 2015. That previous experience in Miami may give him an added advantage as the organization evaluates potential leadership candidates.
After stepping away from the field, Sheppard moved into coaching and player development, serving as LSU’s Director of Player Development in 2020. He joined the Lions in 2021 as an outside linebackers coach, was elevated to linebackers coach the following year, and earned a promotion to defensive coordinator in 2025 — making him one of the youngest coordinators in the league.
Working under head coach Dan Campbell, Sheppard has earned praise for his intensity, attention to detail, and commanding leadership style. Those qualities have helped shape Detroit’s defensive identity and are now drawing attention from teams searching for their next head coach.
For Detroit, the interest is a testament to Sheppard’s impact but also a possible challenge. Losing him would mean another major coordinator change during a crucial championship window. For Miami, the interview reflects genuine interest in a candidate who combines NFL playing experience, rapid coaching development, and familiarity with the franchise.
While it remains unclear whether the Dolphins will move forward with an offer, Sheppard’s emergence as a legitimate head coaching candidate underscores just how quickly his coaching career has taken off.
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