Lions LB Clears Feelings on Kelvin Sheppard As Detroit’s Defense Continues to Disappoint

The Detroit Lions‘ defense endured another nightmare against the Carolina Panthers, allowing 445 yards and 32 points in a 32-26 defeat. Bryce Young threw for 329 yards and two touchdowns, while Tetairoa McMillan erupted for 192 receiving yards. The Lions also failed to force a single turnover as their defense again struggled to make critical stops.

The problems have become impossible to ignore. Carolina produced six straight scoring drives, including four touchdowns, while Detroit surrendered 12 explosive plays. With the defense ranking among the NFL’s worst through four games, plenty of attention has turned toward defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard.

That has naturally raised questions about how much longer Sheppard has in his current role. However, Lions linebacker Jack Campbell was quick to defend his coordinator after the defeat, insisting the players must shoulder responsibility for what happens on the field.

“We’re out there, and we make the scheme come alive, so honestly, put it on me. Put it on the players… But I mean, Shep…he works hard, Dan believes in him, I believe in him. He’s made of the right stuff.”