The Detroit Lions face several critical decisions this offseason, and one of the most pressing involves the future of the offensive coordinator position.
Detroit hired John Morton to replace Ben Johnson after Johnson departed to become the Chicago Bears’ head coach. However, Morton’s first season as offensive coordinator quickly unraveled. Midway through the year, head coach Dan Campbell stripped Morton of play-calling duties, assuming control of the offense himself.
With the Lions missing the playoffs, Morton now appears firmly on the hot seat as the organization shifts its focus to the offseason.
CBS Sports: Lions Expected to Search for New Play-Caller
According to a report from CBS Sports insider Jonathan Jones, league sources believe the Lions are already preparing to search for a new offensive play-caller in 2026. Jones also did not rule out the possibility of Detroit targeting someone from Ben Johnson’s coaching staff in Chicago.
“League sources believe Dan Campbell will be in the market for a new offensive coordinator this year, and perhaps he pulls from Johnson’s staff one year after Johnson took flight from Detroit,” Jones wrote.
That rumor has fueled speculation about the Lions potentially poaching a coach from a division rival.
Declan Doyle an Unlikely Target Due to Bears’ Control
The Bears’ current offensive coordinator is Declan Doyle, though he does not call plays—Johnson retains that responsibility. While Doyle could be interested in a role that allows him to run his own offense, Chicago has the authority to block interviews because any move would be lateral.
Given the rivalry, it’s highly unlikely the Bears would allow Detroit to interview Doyle if interest emerged.
Other Bears Assistants Who Could Interest Detroit
Several Bears assistants cannot be blocked from interviewing for coordinator positions and could draw interest from the Lions:
Eric Bieniemy (Running Backs Coach)
Former offensive coordinator for the Kansas City Chiefs and Washington Commanders
Also served as OC at Colorado
Brings the most coordinator experience
Antwaan Randle El (Wide Receivers Coach / Assistant Head Coach)
Former Lions wide receivers coach from 2021–2024
Familiar with Detroit’s personnel and culture
Joined Johnson’s staff in Chicago in 2025
J.T. Barrett (Quarterbacks Coach)
Lions offensive assistant in 2022
Assistant quarterbacks coach from 2023–24
Left Detroit to follow Johnson to Chicago
Because of their previous experience in Detroit, Randle El and Barrett may be more realistic candidates if the Lions decide to move on from Morton. However, Bieniemy’s extensive experience calling plays at both the NFL and college levels could still make him a strong option.
Lions’ Offensive Coordinator Situation to Watch Closely
While nothing is official, signs continue to point toward the Lions evaluating major changes on offense. Whether Detroit sticks with Morton or turns to a familiar face from a division rival could play a major role in shaping the franchise’s future.
