Detroit Lions promote Shaun Dion Hamilton to linebackers coach following Kelvin Sheppard’s elevation.
The Detroit Lions have seen multiple assistant coaches depart this week, as Aaron Glenn and Ben Johnson have begun to assemble their initial coaching teams.
With Kelvin Sheppard’s announcement of staying in Motown as the team’s new defensive coordinator, Shaun Dion Hamilton, a former Lions player and assistant linebackers coach, has reportedly been elevated to the role of linebackers coach.
Hamilton was picked up off waivers in 2021 after beginning his career with the Washington Commanders, but was put on injured reserve before the season commenced.
After his release before the beginning of the 2022 season, the ex-NFL linebacker became a defensive assistant on the Lions coaching staff. In the previous two seasons, Dion-Hamilton gained experience and grew in his role as the assistant linebackers coach for the team.
Glenn strongly suggested the former two-time College Football Playoff National Champion to think about becoming a coach. Dion-Hamilton competed at the collegiate level for Alabama.
“I understand my own wiring; I’m eager to learn about all 11 (players), their methods, how they are intended to execute it, and how they actually perform,” Hamilton stated, as reported by the Detroit News. “I believe that’s the most significant aspect.” As linebackers, we serve as the quarterbacks of the defense, meaning we must be prepared to take charge. “I’m simply taking the next step to understand everything, including the corners, safeties, defensive line, and nose tackle — that represented the biggest learning curve.”
The Detroit #Lions are set to name Shaun Dion Hamilton as their new linebackers coach, sources tell @CBSSports/@247Sports.
The 29-year old, considered a rising star in the coaching world, has been Detroit’s assistant LB coach the last two years.https://t.co/qOetA1jj8s pic.twitter.com/yjhs4oUoWQ
— Matt Zenitz (@mzenitz) January 25, 2025