As the Detroit Lions approach the end of the regular season, major decisions loom—not only regarding the roster, but also the coaching staff. One name drawing attention is offensive coordinator John Morton, whose role has shifted as the season has unfolded.
Statistically, Detroit’s offense remains among the NFL’s elite, sitting near the top in points scored and total offense. Still, the production hasn’t always told the full story.
A stretch of uneven performances midway through the year prompted head coach Dan Campbell to reclaim play-calling responsibilities following Week 9, which naturally led to speculation about Morton’s long-term place on the staff.
From Morton’s perspective, however, there’s no ambiguity. He wants to remain in Detroit.
“I want to be here,” Morton said in comments shared by Lions OnSI. “I love the organization, I love Dan, and this feels like home to me. Right now, my focus is on Chicago. Beyond that, whatever happens, happens. I just take things as they come.”
Willing to Adapt for the Team
While Morton has aspirations to handle play-calling duties again, he emphasized that his desire to stay with the Lions isn’t tied to that responsibility.
“Not at all,” he said. “I’m all about the team. At this point in my career, I’ll do whatever helps us win. If Dan needs me in a certain role, that’s what I’ll do.”
Since stepping away from calling plays, Morton has leaned more heavily into shaping the passing attack. He also noted that collaborating closely with Campbell on game days has expanded his understanding of how to better blend the passing and rushing elements of the offense.
“There are little details about how you marry the run game with the pass game,” Morton explained. “I’ve picked up a lot. I’ll spend the offseason preparing as if I’m calling plays, just trying to get better.”
Focused on the Present, Ready for the Future
Morton’s only previous experience as a full-time play-caller came with the New York Jets in 2017, and he remains open to doing it again if the opportunity arises. For now, though, his priority is helping Detroit finish the season on a strong note and contributing however he’s asked.
“I’ll keep preparing like I’m going to call plays,” Morton said. “And if that doesn’t happen, I’m okay with that.”
The final decision rests with Campbell and the Lions’ leadership, but one thing is beyond doubt: John Morton hopes to continue being part of the Lions organization, regardless of how his responsibilities may change moving forward.
