After retiring as a player, Sheppard pursued a coaching career, which he began as the director of player development at Louisiana State University (LSU) in 2020. Sheppard joined the Detroit Lions as their outside linebackers coach in 2021 and coached the linebackers from 2022 to 2024 before being named their defensive coordinator in 2025.
On April 29, 2013, Sheppard was traded to the Indianapolis Colts for Jerry Hughes.[5] He played in 15 games with seven starts in 2013, recording 46 tackles and one sack.
On August 30, 2014, Sheppard was released by the Colts.[6]
Miami Dolphins
On September 8, 2014, Sheppard signed with the Miami Dolphins.[7] In 2015, Sheppard played in all 16 games with 13 starts, recording a career-high 105 tackles.
New York Giants (first stint)
On April 11, 2016, Sheppard signed with the New York Giants.[8] He played in all 16 games, starting 10, recording 50 tackles and two passes defensed.
Chicago Bears
On August 18, 2017, Sheppard signed with the Chicago Bears.[9] He was released on September 2, 2017.[10]
New York Giants (second stint)
On November 7, 2017, Sheppard signed with the Giants.[11] Sheppard recorded his first and second career interceptions on December 31, 2017, during Week 17 when he picked off Washington RedskinsquarterbackKirk Cousins twice.[12]
In March 2020, Sheppard was named director of player development at Louisiana State University. He replaced Kevin Faulk who held the position prior to Sheppard.[14]
Detroit Lions
On February 3, 2021, Sheppard was hired by the Detroit Lions as their outside linebackers coach under head coach Dan Campbell.[15] In 2022, Sheppard went from coaching the outside linebackers to the entire linebackers unit. On January 25, 2025, Sheppard was promoted by the Detroit Lions to be their defensive coordinator.[16]
