The Detroit Lions are turning over a new leaf on defense with Kelvin Sheppard taking over the defensive coordinator role from departed Aaron Glenn and a new cast of contributors ready to take on new challenges. The Lions' defensive line is regarded as a crucial position with Aidan Hutchinson returning from injury and first round pick Tyleik Williams expected to become the type of young player who can help rush the passer and stop the run immediately. On Thursday, Sheppard's outlook on a potential rookie diamond in the rough was revealed as the former Lions linebackers coach took to the podium to share his excitement.
Kelvin Sheppard Reveals Excitement For Unheralded Lions Rookie at Training Camp Thursday originally appeared on Athlon Sports.
The Detroit Lions are turning over a new leaf on defense with Kelvin Sheppard taking over the defensive coordinator role from departed Aaron Glenn and a new cast of contributors ready to take on new challenges.
The Lions' defensive line is regarded as a crucial position with Aidan Hutchinson returning from injury and first round pick Tyleik Williams expected to become the type of young player who can help rush the passer and stop the run immediately.
On Thursday, Sheppard's outlook on a potential rookie diamond in the rough was revealed as the former Lions linebackers coach took to the podium to share his excitement.
"What excites you about seeing him?" one media member asked Sheppard about sixth round pick Ahmed Hassanein.
Sheppard could hardly contain his excitement afterward.
"I'm excited for him to get the pads on," Sheppard said. "With the way he plays, the mentality he plays with, the effort he plays with... He's everything we're about here.
"This guy's a rookie, he just started playing football six years ago... Let's not turn this guy into Lawrence Taylor or something like that. But that guy's all-in... Whatever that guy's potential is, he will reach it because he's gonna work at it that way," the Lions coach added.
Detroit Lions Defensive Coordinator Kelvin Sheppard on Ahmed Hassanein.
— Woodward Sports Network (@woodwardsports) July 24, 2025
“I’m excited for him to get the pads on.” pic.twitter.com/84Q3aagZvM
Related: Projected Detroit Lions Starter Emotional in Return to Practice Field After Injury
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jul 24, 2025, where it first appeared.
Category: Football
