The Detroit Lions’ defense has been strong this season. But whispers from Baton Rouge have put one of their key architects in the spotlight. After LSU fired Brian Kelly over the weekend, speculation began swirling around defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard, an LSU alum who’s quickly risen through the coaching ranks. But when asked about returning to his alma mater, Sheppard made it clear to everyone with his decision.

“I can’t be interested in something I have no idea about. I’m interested in beating the Minnesota Vikings.” Sheppard told reporters on Thursday. His response came after his name surfaced in coaching circles as a potential replacement for Kelly. However, Sheppard confirmed that no one from LSU has reached out regarding the vacancy.

At 37, Sheppard has a strong bond with LSU, rooted in both his playing and coaching experiences. A former linebacker for the Tigers, he began his coaching career there in 2020 as the director of player development before joining Dan Campbell’s Lions staff as a defensive coordinator just nine months ago. He initially joined the Detroit Lions in 2021 as their outside linebackers coach.

“That place molded me into the man that I am today,” he said. “You cut me open and I’m a Liger. That’s what they call it: half Lion, half Tiger.” While some alumni have reportedly been advocating for his return, Sheppard is downplaying the rumors.

“There’s a lot of thing you can get into and speculate about,” he added. “But the truth of the matter is nobody has contacted me about anything dealing with a job outside of anything I’m doing right now,” Sheppard said. For now, Sheppard’s loyalty is firmly with the Lions, where his defense is thriving.

His defense has totaled 13 sacks, forced six turnovers, and ranks near the top of the conference in rush defense. 

As the Lions deal with coaching rumors and speculation, the organization remains committed to stability and long-term success. While Kelvin Sheppard’s focus remains on the field, Detroit’s front office is making major moves to secure the team’s core for years to come.

Aidan Hutchinson becomes the NFL’s highest-paid non-quarterback

The Detroit Lions have secured their defensive cornerstone for the future. Star pass rusher Aidan Hutchinson has signed a four-year, $180 million contract extension, including a record $141 million guaranteed. It is the highest ever for a non-quarterback in NFL history. The deal ties the 2022 No. 2 overall pick to Detroit through 2030. Why though?

Hutchinson has been pivotal to the Lions’ defensive resurgence since entering the league. With 34.5 sacks in 46 games, he’s helped Detroit transform into a playoff contender. Last season, he played a key role in ending the franchise’s 32-year postseason win drought and reaching the NFC Championship Game. This year, he’s already tallied six sacks and leads the NFL with 48 total pressures through seven games. Head coach Dan Campbell praised Hutchinson’s impact, saying,

“I don’t know if I can really put a value on that, because I don’t know if there’s a big enough number. I mean, he’s extremely valuable.… He’s disruptive, he’s violent, he’s high motor, he’s crafty, he’s explosive, he’s tough, he’s competitive. He does it all.”

Hutchinson’s extension is part of Detroit’s strategy to keep homegrown talent, joining long-term contracts for Jared Goff, Amon-Ra St. Brown, and Penei Sewell.

With the 25-year-old secured, the Lions’ defense is anchored by one of the NFL’s most relentless players, and it’s clear that the franchise is confident in its future.