John Morton, a name that has been synonymous with strategic offensive planning in the NFL, has recently found himself at the center of a whirlwind of change. The *offensive coordinator* for the Detroit Lions was fired after a tumultuous 2025 season that saw the team miss out on the playoffs, marking a significant shift in the team's dynamics. Morton, who has more than two decades of NFL coaching experience, entered the 2025 season with high hopes but ultimately faced a challenging year .
Morton's journey with the Lions was marked by a notable mid-season turn. Head coach Dan Campbell took over play-calling duties, indicating a loss of trust in Morton's offensive strategies. This move did not bode well for Morton's future with the team. The decision to part ways with Morton was not entirely unexpected, given the team's underwhelming performance and the internal shifts in leadership roles .
Before his stint with the Detroit Lions, Morton had an illustrious career that included roles with several high-profile teams. He served as the passing game coordinator for the Denver Broncos from 2023 to 2024, a position that showcased his expertise in crafting effective passing strategies. His tenure at the Broncos was a testament to his ability to adapt and innovate within the NFL's competitive landscape . Earlier in his career, Morton served as a senior offensive assistant coach for the New York Jets and the New Orleans Saints, working under some of the league's most respected coaches, including Sean Payton, Jim Harbaugh, and Pete Carroll. This diverse coaching background provided him with a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of various offensive schemes, which he aimed to bring to the Lions .
However, despite his extensive experience, Morton's time with the Lions was plagued by struggles that ultimately led to his dismissal. The Lions' inability to secure a playoff spot in the 2025 season was a significant factor in the decision to let Morton go. The team's offensive performance was often criticized, and the mid-season change in play-calling duties underscored the lack of confidence in Morton's strategies. The firing of Morton was officially announced by the Lions on Tuesday, confirming a decision that had been widely anticipated following the team's disappointing season .
Looking forward, the Detroit Lions will now need to find a new offensive coordinator who can steer the team back on track. The search for a new leader will be crucial in determining the team's success in the upcoming seasons. For John Morton, this chapter marks a new beginning in his coaching career, one that has seen him navigate the highs and lows of the NFL's competitive world with resilience and determination .
