For the second straight offseason, a Detroit Lions defensive coordinator is drawing head-coaching interest.

According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, the Miami Dolphins have requested permission to interview Lions defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard for their open head coach position, adding another name to an expanding list of candidates.

Kelvin Sheppard’s Coaching Rise in Detroit

Sheppard, 38, doesn’t carry the same national profile that former Lions DC Aaron Glenn had during last year’s hiring cycle, but his rapid rise within Detroit’s organization has not gone unnoticed.

A former third-round NFL Draft pick, Sheppard joined the Lions’ coaching staff in 2021 as outside linebackers coach. He transitioned to linebackers coach in 2022, holding that role for three seasons before being promoted to defensive coordinator ahead of the 2025 NFL season.

Lions Defense Took a Step Back in 2025

Statistically, Detroit’s defense regressed under Sheppard’s first year as coordinator. The Lions allowed 24.3 points per game in 2025, up from 20.1 points per game in 2024, prompting speculation that Sheppard’s job security could be in question heading into 2026.

However, head coach Dan Campbell publicly backed Sheppard, emphasizing his growth throughout the season and citing difficult circumstances that impacted the unit.

Injuries Played a Major Role

Sheppard’s defense was hit hard by injuries, particularly in the secondary. Brian Branch, Kerby Joseph, D.J. Reed, Terrion Arnold, and Ennis Rakestraw all spent time on injured reserve, with several unavailable during the critical stretch run.

While injuries don’t fully explain the Lions’ defensive struggles, they did provide important context—and helped Sheppard maintain a positive league-wide reputation.

Miami Connection Adds Intrigue

The Dolphins interview request carries an added layer of intrigue. Sheppard played his most productive NFL season with Miami in 2015, creating a natural connection between the coach and the franchise.

If hired, Sheppard would be tasked with helping the Dolphins return to contention after a disappointing season and a coaching reset.

Dolphins’ Head Coach Candidate List

Miami currently has one of the shorter known candidate lists in the league, though more names are expected to emerge. Confirmed and rumored candidates include:

Anthony Campanile, DC (Jaguars) – Rumored

Jeff Hafley, DC (Packers) – Interview requested

John Harbaugh, former HC (Ravens) – Contacted

Klint Kubiak, OC (Seahawks) – Interviewed (Jan. 10)

Mike McCarthy, former HC (Cowboys) – Rumored

Robert Saleh, DC (49ers) – Interview requested

Chris Shula, DC (Rams) – Interview requested

Kevin Stefanski, former HC (Browns) – Rumored

Adam Stenavich, OC (Packers) – Rumored

What’s Next?

With league-wide coaching interviews ramping up, Sheppard now has an opportunity to take the next major step in his coaching career—one that could come sooner than many expected.