The Detroit Lions’ 2025 season is nearing its end, and on Thursday, all three coordinators — offensive coordinator John Morton, defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard, and special teams coordinator Dave Fipp — addressed the media for the final time this year.
From coaching futures to scheme evolution and standout performances, here are the six biggest takeaways from the Lions coordinators’ final press conference.
- John Morton Wants to Remain With the Lions in 2026
Despite losing play-calling duties midway through the season, John Morton made it clear he wants to stay in Detroit moving forward.
“I’d like to be here, yeah. I love it here. I love Dan (Campbell), I love the organization, it’s my home,” Morton said.
While Morton acknowledged he still hopes to call plays at the NFL level again, he emphasized his commitment to the team-first mindset and his willingness to do whatever head coach Dan Campbell asks.
“I’m a team player. I’ll do whatever it takes at this point in my career,” Morton said. “Whatever Dan wants, I do.”
- Lions Confident in Run Game Matchup vs. Bears
The Lions’ rushing attack has struggled recently, failing to reach 75 rushing yards in three straight games. However, Morton expressed optimism about Detroit’s chances against a Chicago Bears defense allowing 135 rushing yards per game and 5.0 yards per carry.
“I think we can get after these guys a little bit,” Morton said. “They’re giving up almost five yards a carry.”
Detroit dominated the Bears on the ground earlier this season, rushing for 177 yards and two touchdowns in a Week 2 blowout win.
- Loss of Brian Branch and Kerby Joseph Hurt the Defense
Defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard addressed the impact of losing both starting safeties Brian Branch and Kerby Joseph, acknowledging how difficult it is to replace All-Pro caliber talent.
“When you lose All-Pro caliber players, it’s going to affect you in some capacity,” Sheppard said.
While Sheppard praised the effort of their replacements, he admitted the defense allowed more explosive plays as the season progressed — something Joseph previously helped erase.
“She’s been kind of the angel in the outfield,” Sheppard said of Joseph. “We weren’t as exposed as we have been as of late.”
- Lions Defensive Scheme Is Constantly Evolving
Sheppard pushed back against the idea that Detroit’s defensive system has remained static since Aaron Glenn’s tenure began.
“The system has evolved,” Sheppard explained. “We started in a true 3-4, moved to a hybrid over front, then blended both.”
According to Sheppard, that flexibility allows the Lions defense to adapt week-to-week based on personnel and opponent.
“I believe we’ve done that,” he said.
- Dave Fipp Defends Kalif Raymond’s Aggressive Punt Returns
Special teams coordinator Dave Fipp addressed concerns about Kalif Raymond fielding punts inside the 10-yard line, a decision that has drawn criticism from fans.
Fipp explained the philosophy is rooted in controlling outcomes rather than letting the ball bounce unpredictably.
“I’d prefer to put the ball in our hands and be aggressive,” Fipp said. “You never know how the ball is going to bounce.”
- Sione Vaki Earns High Praise After Breakout Season
When asked which player exceeded expectations in 2025, Fipp immediately pointed to Sione Vaki.
Despite battling injuries, Vaki’s versatility and physicality stood out.
“He’s just a unique athlete,” Fipp said. “Explosive, powerful, strong… his ability to tackle and play in coverage is exceptional.”
Fipp labeled Vaki’s season as “outstanding,” calling him one of Detroit’s most impactful special teams contributors.
Final Thoughts
As the Lions close out a turbulent 2025 campaign, the coordinators’ comments offered insight into coaching continuity, scheme flexibility, and player development. With decisions looming this offseason, Detroit’s leadership appears focused on stability — and building forward.
