The Lions didn’t promote from within to replace offensive coordinator Ben Johnson, but they selected someone with familiarity with the team’s offensive style.
John Morton served as a senior offensive assistant in 2022, working alongside Johnson before spending the last two seasons on Sean Payton’s staff in Denver. Morton also collaborated with quarterback Jared Goff in his previous position and mentioned in an interview with Dan Miller of Fox 2 in Detroit that the offense he designs will “continue the vision” that has been established, as it is “centered around the quarterback.”
“I think it’s crucial because everything starts with the quarterback,” Morton explained. “Having worked with him before, I understand what he likes and doesn’t like. That’s key for a play caller. We’ll pick up where we left off when the players return, and I’ll learn more about him, the plays he enjoys, and what has worked well here.”
Morton is among several coaches assuming new roles on Dan Campbell’s staff following a wave of departures last month, and combining their fresh perspectives with the Lions’ proven strengths will be critical for the team to stay at the top of the NFC.
