Steve Spagnuolo’s endorsement of Kelvin Sheppard carries significant weight, as he is widely respected for his defensive expertise.

When Aaron Glenn left for a head coaching position, it seemed clear that Kelvin Sheppard would be the top choice to replace him as the Detroit Lions’ defensive coordinator. Glenn had openly acknowledged grooming Sheppard for the role, and Sheppard himself expressed confidence in being ready when the opportunity arose.

That opportunity came swiftly. Just days after Glenn accepted the New York Jets’ head coach job, Sheppard was promoted from linebackers coach to the Lions’ defensive coordinator.

Sheppard’s rise through the coaching ranks has been rapid. He returned to the Lions, where he finished his playing career in 2018, as part of Dan Campbell’s initial staff in 2021. After coaching outside linebackers for a year, Sheppard took over the entire linebacker corps in 2022, gradually taking on more responsibilities. Dan Campbell believes Sheppard will eventually become a head coach.

Sheppard spent two seasons with the New York Giants (2016 and 2017), starting 17 games. He was a midseason acquisition in 2017 and later signed with the Lions in 2018.

“I love Kelvin Sheppard,” Spagnuolo said, grabbing the reporter’s arm and making eye contact. “In my opinion, Kelvin Sheppard will be a head coach in this league. He was one of the smartest players I coached in New York, and we were lucky to have him.”

Spagnuolo, who is about to coach in his seventh Super Bowl and his sixth as a coordinator, gave Sheppard a glowing review. He is the only assistant coach to win four Super Bowls, and he could secure a fifth this weekend.

Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press shared Spagnuolo’s comments after a media session in New Orleans. When Sheppard’s name came up, Spagnuolo’s reaction was enthusiastic, grabbing Birkett’s arm in excitement.

“I love Kelvin Sheppard,” Spagnuolo continued. “To me, if I could make a small prediction, he’ll be a head coach in this league. He was one of the smartest players I ever had, and we were fortunate to get him.”

“Really smart,” Spagnuolo praised. “He reminded me of Antonio Pierce from earlier in New York. When Kelvin joined us, he had this ability to connect with everyone through his football intelligence and the way he played the game. You can see that now in his coaching. I always knew he’d be a coach, and a great one.”

Spagnuolo reflected on a moment when he encouraged Sheppard to consider coaching. “I knew he’d be a success,” he said. “He’s done an excellent job in Detroit.”

Having started his coaching career in the early 80s, Spagnuolo is widely regarded as one of the best defensive minds in football. His enthusiastic endorsement of Sheppard carries considerable significance, and it’s clear he’s genuinely excited to discuss Sheppard’s future.