LIVE FROM DETROIT — Lions Confident Ahead of Trade Deadline, Sheppard Dismisses Talk of Defensive Weakness
As the NFL trade deadline looms next week, all eyes are on the Detroit Lions, but defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard insists his defense doesn’t need outside help.
Speaking passionately to reporters, Sheppard shut down speculation that general manager Brad Holmes would be forced into action.
“I don’t see a need or a necessity to go and reach for anything or anyone,” Sheppard stated firmly. “I think that’s very disrespectful to talk about that with the guys that we have and I feel like the respect that they’ve garnered by the work that they’ve put in through seven weeks.”
Lions Defense Among NFL’s Elite
At 5–2, the Lions are emerging as one of the NFL’s most balanced teams. The defense ranks top-10 in both total and rushing defense and sits fifth in the league for takeaways — a major factor behind their strong start.
Before their Week 7 bye, Detroit delivered what Sheppard described as their best defensive performance of the season, shutting down the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in a commanding 24–9 victory.
And the best part? Reinforcements are on the way. The Lions expect several key names back from injury, including cornerback D.J. Reed, safety Kerby Joseph, defensive end Marcus Davenport, and linebacker Malcolm Rodriguez. Additionally, safety Brian Branch is set to return after suspension.
Rumors of Trade Interest — But Confidence in Current Roster
While reports have linked Detroit to potential moves for defensive end and cornerback depth, Sheppard believes his backups have already stepped up.
Players like Nick Whiteside, Rock Ya-Sin, and Tyler Lacy have all made valuable contributions in recent weeks — easing concerns about roster depth.
When asked how quickly a new player could fit into his defensive system, Sheppard was direct:
“It depends on who the player is (and) the position of the player,” he said. “Some positions are more complex than others. You try to plug and play a middle linebacker — that’s impossible to do in this system. But obviously, you get a D-lineman, you tell him to get off the ball and go.”
“My Job Is to Coach, Not Be the GM”
In closing, Sheppard made it clear that any trade deadline decisions rest with Brad Holmes, not him — and he’s perfectly fine with that.
“That’s what I have the luxury of doing here,” Sheppard explained. “I get the luxury of just being a defensive coordinator. I don’t have to try to be the GM, I don’t have to try to be the head coach… I’m surrounded by an ecosystem of elite guys in their respective groups.”
“So I’m able to just go up to my office and focus on calling the game on Sunday, Monday, Thursday night — whatever day that might be — and I’m very thankful for that opportunity here.”
LIVE TAKE:
The message from Detroit’s defensive camp is clear — no panic, no shopping spree. With health returning, confidence soaring, and a top-ranked unit already in place, the Lions believe their defense is built to last.
Reporting live from Detroit — the pride of the NFC North is roaring louder than ever.
