February 24, 2025 1:43:31 PM
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Shaun Dion Hamilton Named Detroit Lions Linebackers Coach

Hamilton, a native of Montgomery, Alabama, played for the Crimson Tide from 2014 to 2017. During his time with the team, he contributed to two National Championships under coach Nick Saban in 2015 and 2017, and he was named a permanent team captain for the 2017 team.

During the 2015 season, Hamilton participated in 15 games, recording 27 tackles, but faced limitations in 2017, playing in nine games and making 40 tackles.

Following his college career, Hamilton entered the 2018 National Football League Draft, where he was selected in the sixth round as the 197th overall pick by the Washington Commanders. He spent three seasons with the Commanders from 2018 to 2020, playing in 46 games, including seven starts. During that time, he accumulated 89 tackles, with 63 being solo, along with nine tackles for loss, 2.5 sacks, two forced fumbles, one fumble recovery, and one interception.

After his time with the Commanders, he spent the 2021 season with the Lions before moving into an assistant coaching role for linebackers in 2022.

This promotion comes amid significant changes to the Lions’ coaching staff this week. Hamilton will take over the position from Kelvin Sheppard, who is reportedly being elevated to defensive coordinator following Aaron Glenn’s departure for a head coaching opportunity.

The Detroit Lions have announced the promotion of Shaun Dion Hamilton to the position of linebackers coach, marking a significant milestone in his burgeoning coaching career. Hamilton, a former NFL linebacker, has swiftly transitioned from player to coach, bringing with him a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of the game.

Early Life and High School Career

Born on September 11, 1995, in Montgomery, Alabama, Hamilton attended Carver High School, where he distinguished himself both academically and athletically. As class valedictorian, he showcased his commitment to excellence in the classroom. On the football field, his performance earned him a spot on the Alabama Sports Writers Association 6A All-State team, highlighting his prowess as a top-tier linebacker prospect.

Collegiate Success at Alabama

Hamilton’s football journey continued at the University of Alabama, where he played under renowned head coach Nick Saban from 2014 to 2017. During his tenure, he contributed to two College Football Playoff National Championships in 2015 and 2017. In his junior year, Hamilton played in 15 games, recording 27 tackles. Despite an injury-shortened senior season, he managed to accumulate 40 tackles over nine games and was honored as a permanent team captain in 2017, underscoring his leadership and impact on the team.

Transition to the NFL

In the 2018 NFL Draft, Hamilton was selected in the sixth round (197th overall) by the Washington Redskins. Over three seasons with Washington (2018-2020), he appeared in 46 games, including seven starts, and amassed 89 tackles, 2.5 sacks, two forced fumbles, and one interception. His on-field intelligence and work ethic were evident throughout his playing career.

Joining the Detroit Lions

Hamilton joined the Detroit Lions in 2021. After spending the preseason with the team, he transitioned into a coaching role as part of Detroit’s WCF Minority Coaching Assistantship in September 2022. By 2023, he had advanced to the position of assistant linebackers coach. In this role, he played a pivotal part in the development of the team’s linebacking corps. Notably, he contributed to linebacker Alex Anzalone’s standout season, where Anzalone became the third player in franchise history to record at least 125 tackles and 3.0 sacks in a single season. Hamilton also mentored rookie linebacker Jack Campbell, who ranked second among all NFL rookies with 89 tackles in 2023.

Detroit Lions

Promotion to Linebackers Coach

The promotion of Hamilton to linebackers coach comes amid significant changes within the Lions’ coaching staff. He succeeds Kelvin Sheppard, who has been elevated to the role of defensive coordinator following Aaron Glenn’s departure for a head coaching opportunity. Hamilton’s rapid ascent through the coaching ranks is a testament to his football acumen and leadership abilities.

Looking Ahead

As the new linebackers coach, Hamilton will be responsible for overseeing the development and performance of the Lions’ linebacking unit. His firsthand experience as a player, combined with his coaching journey, positions him well to mentor and guide his players effectively. The Lions organization and its fans are optimistic about the impact Hamilton will have in his new role, anticipating continued growth and success for the team’s defense under his guidance.