The Detroit Lions have announced the dismissal of offensive coordinator John Morton after just one season with the team. The decision, made public on Tuesday, follows a campaign where the Lions finished with a record of 9-8 and failed to secure a playoff berth for the first time since 2022. Morton’s arrival was part of a coaching overhaul after Ben Johnson, who led the Lions to a franchise-record 15 wins in 2024, was appointed head coach of the Chicago Bears.
Under Morton’s guidance, the Lions showcased a potent offense, averaging 28.3 points per game. Despite this impressive figure, the team struggled with consistency and failed to establish a clear offensive identity beyond big plays. They had notable talent in their ranks, including Pro Bowl selections Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jahmyr Gibbs, but fell short of expectations. This contrasts sharply with the previous season under Johnson, where the Lions led the NFL with an average of 33.2 points per game.
Coaching Strategy Changes Following Losses
A pivotal moment in the season occurred during Week 10 when head coach Dan Campbell took over play-calling duties from Morton. This change came after a disappointing 27-24 loss to the Minnesota Vikings on November 2, 2024. In a recent statement, Campbell expressed uncertainty about whether he would continue as the primary playcaller moving forward. He emphasized his commitment to doing what is best for the team and acknowledged the advantages of self-reliance in play-calling:
“You don’t have to worry about somebody else leaving. So, that would be one of the perks of it,”
Campbell said. He further noted that he would carefully consider the decision, weighing what aligns best with the team’s objectives.
The Lions’ offense had moments of brilliance, but the overall performance indicated that further refinement was necessary. The team will now need to search for a new offensive coordinator who can build on the existing talent and develop a more cohesive strategy.
Background on John Morton and Future Implications
Morton’s coaching journey took him back to the Lions in 2022 as a senior offensive assistant. He subsequently spent time with the Denver Broncos as the passing game coordinator during the 2023-24 season before returning to Detroit. A native of Rochester Hills, Michigan, Morton had hoped to make a significant impact in his latest role.
The Lions’ leadership will now focus on recruiting a replacement who can help revitalize their offensive strategy. With the upcoming offseason approaching, the team faces crucial decisions regarding roster improvements, free agency, and the NFL Draft. The emphasis will be on building a stronger foundation for a more successful campaign in the following season.
