In the NFL, coaching changes can shape the rise or fall of entire franchises. When a team loses multiple key figures in quick succession, the ripple effects can be enormous. For a franchise that had finally built “Super Bowl or bust” expectations, what happens if the mastermind behind a creative offense, a respected defensive leader, and the veteran anchor of the offensive line all exit within months of each other?
That’s exactly the situation facing the 2025 Detroit Lions. The team opted for continuity instead of outside hires, promoting Kelvin Sheppard to defensive coordinator and bringing back John Morton as offensive coordinator after a prior stint in 2022. This means they’ll move forward without proven replacements for Ben Johnson, now leading the rival Chicago Bears, and Aaron Glenn, who took over the New York Jets. The NFC has only grown tougher in recent years, and Detroit’s schedule doesn’t leave much room for growing pains. Replicating the offensive firepower that energized fans won’t be easy.
An anonymous NFL general manager didn’t mince words when assessing Detroit’s situation:
“Honestly, I think they’re in real trouble. Losing one top coordinator is tough, but losing both in the same offseason is brutal. Those guys were among the best game planners in the league. Dan Campbell is a strong head coach, but that team didn’t make its leap until he had elite minds on both sides of the ball. I don’t think their replacements stack up.”
Another GM echoed the sentiment, particularly when it comes to quarterback Jared Goff’s future:
“That offensive coordinator saved Goff—mentally and mechanically. He knew Goff needs elite protection and knew how to scheme for it. Without him, I don’t see Goff playing at the same level. Detroit still has talent, but they’re not the 14-win team we just saw. More like 10-7 or 11-6.”
For the Lions, the upcoming season will be a test of whether culture and leadership can outweigh the loss of brilliant tactical minds. Their Super Bowl window isn’t shut just yet—but it may already be starting to close.
