John Morton Takes the Reins: Can He Keep Detroit’s High-Flying Offense Soaring?

As John Morton takes over as the Detroit Lions’ offensive coordinator, he inherits one of the NFL’s most dynamic and high-scoring units. Stepping into the role vacated by Ben Johnson, who departed for the Chicago Bears’ head coaching job, Morton is focused on maintaining continuity while adding his own touch to the system.

Morton, a native of Auburn Hills, Michigan, is no stranger to the Lions. He previously spent the 2022 season as a senior offensive assistant in Detroit before following Sean Payton to Denver for the past two years. His familiarity with quarterback Jared Goff, developed during his earlier stint with the team, is something he sees as an advantage.

“I think it’s big because it all starts with the quarterback,” Morton said in an interview with Fox 2 Detroit’s Dan Miller. “When I was here, I was in the quarterback room. So, I have a feel of what [Goff] likes and what he doesn’t. That’s important as a play-caller.”

Morton emphasized that Detroit’s offense will continue to be built around Goff’s strengths, much like it was under Johnson. He cited his experience in New Orleans working with Drew Brees, where the offense was tailored to the quarterback’s skills to ensure long-term success.

Despite stepping into one of the NFL’s most creative offensive systems, Morton isn’t looking to overhaul what has already been built. Instead, he sees his role as maintaining the vision set by head coach Dan Campbell while making adjustments where necessary.

“They’ve already established a philosophy here,” Morton said. “It’s just my job to continue the vision of how Dan wants things. We’ll tinker with things here and there and see how we can make it better.”

Morton’s last experience as a play-caller came in 2017 with the New York Jets under Todd Bowles, a tenure that lasted only one season. For the past six years, he has worked in supporting roles rather than calling plays directly. Now, he has the opportunity to prove himself with an elite offense.

The Lions led the league in scoring last season, and expectations remain high. Morton has said all the right things since his return to Detroit, but the true test will come when the regular season begins and his play-calling is put under the spotlight.