Detroit Lions defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard is not mincing words about his unit’s performance. Following a stretch of underwhelming play, Sheppard made it clear that he expects, and is demanding, a higher level of production from his pass rush as the team heads into the critical month of December.
Detroit Lions Pass Rush: “Being Close Isn’t Good Enough”
The Lions’ defense has struggled to consistently affect opposing quarterbacks in recent weeks. Over the past four games, the team has managed to produce only four sacks, with just 2.5 of those credited to the defensive line. This has put a spotlight on the unit, and Sheppard addressed the issue head-on during his Monday press conference.
“I don’t think we’ve affected the quarterback to play any style these last couple of weeks,” Sheppard stated. “Being close isn’t good enough.”
His blunt assessment diverges slightly from head coach Dan Campbell’s recent comments but highlights a clear internal focus on improving the pass rush. Sheppard took accountability, acknowledging that while players need to win their individual matchups, he also needs to put them in better positions to succeed.
By the Numbers: A Growing Concern
The statistics support Sheppard’s sense of urgency. For the season, the Lions are allowing opposing quarterbacks the longest time to throw in the entire league, at an average of 2.99 seconds. While the team’s pressure rate of 38.7% ranks an impressive fifth in the NFL, the inability to convert those pressures into sacks or rushed throws is a major issue.
Star defensive end Aidan Hutchinson, who started the season with 7.0 sacks in his first eight games, has seen his production dip to just 1.5 sacks in the last four contests. Sheppard defended his star player, noting that Hutchinson consistently draws extra attention. However, he emphasized that it can’t be a one-man show.
“Other people have to win,” Sheppard said. “When your name is called, if you draw a one-on-one, you have to win in this league if you want to be around. And it’s just as simple as that.”
Adjustments on the Horizon
To fix the problem, Sheppard confirmed that everything is on the table. The coaching staff is exploring both personnel and schematic changes to generate more impactful plays. As the NFL season moves into its final stretch, the coordinator stressed that players must rise to the occasion.
The challenge ahead is significant, with a looming matchup against a potent Dallas Cowboys passing offense. Sheppard’s public demand for more from his pass rush serves as a clear message: for the Lions to succeed down the stretch, simply getting “close” to the quarterback will no longer be tolerated.
Don't stop here
Every Score. Every Story. One Home.
Breaking sports, entertainment and news from across the Total Apex network, updated all day.
Get the Full Story →
