Detroit Lions coordinators Kelvin Sheppard (defense) and Drew Petzing (offense) met with media at the 2026 NFL Combine to discuss their respective roles and team strategies.
Defensive Coordinator Kelvin Sheppard's Takeaways
Self-Scouting Approach
Sheppard stated the team is taking a "different approach" to self-scouting this offseason. Coach Dan Campbell has focused on defensive analysis, indicating that while an overhaul is not needed, specific areas require tightening. Sheppard emphasized a transparent process with Campbell, focusing on solutions without sugarcoating.
"While an overhaul is not needed, specific areas require tightening."
Third-and-10 Defense Struggles
The Lions' defense struggled significantly on third-and-10 or more, allowing conversions on 28.8% of such plays, which was the third-highest rate in the league. In contrast, they performed well on third-and-9 or less, with a 42.5% conversion rate allowed, ranking seventh-lowest. Sheppard attributed some of this to not providing players with enough situational information.
Explosive Play Obsession
Sheppard identified explosive plays as another key problem area. The Lions gave up 105 explosive plays (defined as 12+ yards rushing or 17+ yards passing), consisting of 82 passing plays and 23 running plays. This analysis was a primary focus during self-scouting and will continue to be reviewed with players. Sheppard estimated 30-40 percent of these plays were preventable and took responsibility for insufficient coaching detail.
Offensive Coordinator Drew Petzing's Takeaways
Offensive Personnel Flexibility
Petzing indicated that the Lions' offensive style would remain fluid and adaptable based on their roster. He noted that the team would not necessarily adopt a heavy 13 personnel approach, as previously used by Campbell's former team, emphasizing the goal is to field the best 11 players available.
Player Acquisition vs. Development
Petzing stated his primary focus is on maximizing the potential of the players currently on the roster rather than heavily influencing player acquisition. He expressed trust in General Manager Brad Holmes to bring in appropriate talent and highlighted the strong collaborative environment within the organization regarding personnel decisions.
Dynamic Efficiency Philosophy
Petzing described efficiency as a "moving target," mirroring comments by Coach Campbell. He explained that game plans would vary, sometimes emphasizing staying on schedule and possessing the ball, and other times prioritizing generating explosive plays.
The philosophy is to be dynamic and adapt to weekly matchups rather than adhering to a single method of achieving offensive efficiency.