The Detroit Lions are officially searching for their next offensive coordinator after parting ways with John Morton on January 6 following just one season with the team.

While Morton held the title, Lions head coach Dan Campbell handled offensive play-calling duties for much of the season, making the decision unsurprising and largely viewed as inevitable.

Dan Campbell Open to Calling Plays in 2026–27

After Detroit wrapped up its season with a 19–16 win over the Chicago Bears, Campbell addressed his future role on offense when speaking with reporters.

When asked if he would continue calling plays during the 2026–27 NFL season, Campbell made it clear he hasn’t ruled anything out.

“I’m open to anything. I don’t know exactly where I’m at with that yet,” Campbell said.

“One of the good things if I did do that, you don’t have to worry about somebody else leaving. You don’t have to worry about your play-caller leaving. So, that would be one of the perks of it.”

Campbell added that his ultimate decision will come down to what he believes is best for the team.

“I really want to do what I feel is best for the team. If I believe that’s what’s best for us and I feel good about it, then I will. If I just feel like, ‘Eh,’ then I won’t do it.”

Still, with the primary responsibility of an offensive coordinator being play-calling, Detroit is expected to continue pursuing a strong candidate to take over the role.

Mike McDaniel’s Head Coaching Interview Clouds Lions’ Plans

One of the Lions’ most intriguing offensive coordinator candidates may now be slipping away.

On Thursday, January 15, the Baltimore Ravens announced they have officially interviewed former Miami Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel for their head coaching vacancy.

McDaniel was let go by Miami on January 8, and almost immediately emerged as a popular name linked to Detroit’s offensive coordinator opening. Widely regarded as one of the league’s sharpest offensive minds, McDaniel was seen as a potential ideal fit in Detroit—even after his mixed results as a head coach.

However, a head coaching opportunity with a team like Baltimore would likely take priority over an offensive coordinator role, even with a contender like the Lions.

Mike McDaniel’s Coaching Resume

McDaniel spent four seasons as head coach of the Dolphins, compiling a 35–33 regular-season record.

Made the playoffs in each of his first two seasons

Failed to win a postseason game

Missed the playoffs in his final two years

Despite the results, McDaniel’s offensive creativity and scheme design remain highly respected around the league.

Lions OC Candidate Drawing Heavy Interest

According to The Detroit News, the Lions have already interviewed McDaniel for their offensive coordinator opening.

In addition, NFL reporter Greg Auman reports McDaniel is also interviewing for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ offensive coordinator position on Friday, further underscoring his league-wide demand.

Auman added some encouraging context for Detroit:

“He would consider a great OC opportunity better than a not-great head coaching vacancy.”

That statement leaves the door open for the Lions, suggesting Detroit could still be a strong landing spot if McDaniel prioritizes fit and roster strength over title alone.

What This Means for the Lions

While McDaniel’s head coaching interview with the Ravens represents a potential setback, Detroit remains very much in the mix. Whether Dan Campbell ultimately keeps play-calling duties or hands them to a proven offensive mind, the Lions’ offensive coordinator search is shaping up to be one of the most important storylines of the offseason.