Lions Eye Broncos’ John Morton for Offensive Coordinator Role

DETROIT, Mich. — The Detroit Lions are reportedly closing in on their next offensive coordinator, with Broncos passing game coordinator John Morton emerging as the top candidate to replace Ben Johnson, who recently became the Chicago Bears‘ head coach. According to ESPN‘s Adam Schefter, Morton is traveling to Detroit to meet with the Lions’ coaching staff.

Morton, 55, has a long history with Lions head coach Dan Campbell. The two previously worked together on the New Orleans Saints‘ staff and again in Detroit during the 2022 season, when Morton served as a senior offensive assistant. Morton’s extensive NFL coaching career includes stints with the Raiders, 49ers, Jets, and Saints, as well as a role as USC‘s offensive coordinator from 2007 to 2010.

“John Morton has emerged as a candidate to watch for the Lions’ offensive coordinator position,” NFL Network‘s Ian Rapoport reported. “He recently interviewed with coach Dan Campbell and was on the Detroit staff a few years ago.”

Morton’s potential hiring comes as the Lions seek to maintain the offensive success they achieved under Johnson, who helped the team rank among the NFL’s top offenses in 2024. Morton has spent the past two seasons as the Broncos’ passing game coordinator under head coach Sean Payton, further solidifying his reputation as a skilled offensive mind.

Broncos coaches and executives have been in high demand this offseason, with defensive coordinator Vance Joseph and front office member David Shaw also receiving interest for head coaching roles. Morton’s connection to Campbell and his experience in both college and professional football make him a strong fit for the Lions’ offensive coordinator position.

If hired, Morton would join a growing list of coaches from Sean Payton’s coaching tree, which includes Campbell, Joe Lombardi, Aaron Glenn, and Dennis Allen. The Lions are expected to make a decision soon as they prepare for the 2025 NFL season.