The new NFL season is almost upon us and Detroit Lions fans have a lot to be hopeful about. This is especially true after last season ended in disappointing fashion, as Dan Campbell's side failed to make the Playoffs.

Heading into the new season, there is a good mix of new faces and of course old ones. One of members in the "old" camp is DC Kelvin Sheppard. Sheppard took over from Aaron Glenn, and had a tough go of things as mentioned earlier.

However, recently the 38-year-old expressed his excitement. Specifically, over the new look defense he has to work with, pointing out that there are things he can try with these players that just weren't possible before.

Why? Well, to paraphrase Sheppard this defense is a lot more experienced.

"The time on task that these guys have had, I think in turn style when you look at this in revers, they're going to allow me to do a lot of things that quite frankly I couldn't do with younger players."

It's good to see the Lions DC in such good spirits. Hopefully his excitement for what he's seen in practice translates to exciting performances on the field.

The Lions offense receives major blow

While Kelvin Sheppard is excited about the Lions defense, Drew Petzing, the team's OC has something to be worried about. After all, the 39-year-old just learned that he will be without one of his key weapons for the start of the season.

Over the off-season, the Lions brought in Isiah Pacheco in free agency. Pacheco joined from the Chiefs as a replacement for the departing David Montgomery.

Unfortunately, the Lions recently announced that Pacheco has been placed on injury reserve. It's a huge blow, but hopefully one that won't hamper the Lions' season.

Written by

Joseph Nithin