Overview
- Detroit defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard publicly demanded “real change” from the team’s linebackers and secondary after a press conference on Thursday following a 32-26 loss in Carolina.
- The defense has allowed at least 30 points in three of its first four games and is surrendering an average of roughly 32 points per game, exposing coverage breakdowns and missed assignments.
- Sheppard defended the current scheme and his use of blitzes while praising the defensive line as the best he has seen in his tenure and saying the back seven has been doing them a disservice.
- Head coach Dan Campbell reiterated public support for Sheppard and said firing him is not under consideration now but that he will use the team’s upcoming bye week to evaluate staff and consider adding senior oversight.
- The Lions opened safety Brian Branch’s practice window and could activate him before October 28, a development that could alter coaching evaluations, affect the secondary’s performance, and influence any staffing moves after the bye.