The Detroit Lions are allowing defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard to explore head-coaching opportunities as he prepares for his first known interview for an NFL top job. According to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, Sheppard has been approved to interview in person for the Miami Dolphins’ head coaching vacancy on Monday.
While Detroit remains focused on its own search for a new offensive coordinator, the organization has not stood in the way of Sheppard’s growing league-wide interest. Miami formally requested permission to speak with him last week, and the Lions granted the request shortly thereafter.
At just 38 years old, Sheppard’s rapid ascent has been notable. The former NFL linebacker joined Dan Campbell’s staff in 2021 as the Lions’ outside linebackers coach after a brief role as LSU’s director of player development. He later coached the entire linebackers unit from 2022 through 2024.
Sheppard was promoted to defensive coordinator last offseason following Aaron Glenn’s departure to become head coach of the New York Jets. His first season in the role delivered mixed results, as Detroit’s defense opened the year strong before injuries mounted and the unit settled into a middle-tier finish league-wide.
Despite those challenges, Sheppard’s reputation has continued to grow. Campbell publicly praised his development and adaptability in a December radio appearance, noting the learning curve that accompanies any first-time coordinator and commending Sheppard’s ability to adjust and evolve throughout the season.
If Sheppard were to land the Miami job, the Lions would receive significant compensation under the NFL’s Rooney Rule, earning two third-round draft picks for developing and losing a minority head-coaching candidate.
Miami’s search remains competitive. Green Bay Packers defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley is widely viewed as the current frontrunner and is the only candidate scheduled for a second interview so far. The Dolphins have also spoken with several high-profile coordinators across the league, and more interviews are forthcoming. Should Sheppard impress, Detroit could once again face the challenge of replacing multiple coordinators in consecutive offseasons.
