Sheppard played college football for the LSU Tigers and was selected by the Buffalo Bills in the third round of the 2011 NFL draft.

[1] He was also a member of the Indianapolis Colts, Miami Dolphins, New York Giants, Chicago Bears and Detroit Lions.

[11] Sheppard recorded his first and second career interceptions on December 31, 2017, during Week 17 when he picked off Washington Redskins quarterback Kirk Cousins twice.

[13] In March 2020, Sheppard was named director of player development at Louisiana State University.

On January 30, 2025, Sheppard was promoted to defensive coordinator, replacing Aaron Glenn, after his departure to become head coach of the New York Jets.