The Detroit Lions were arguably the NFL’s best team during the regular season. Their NFC North title and the No. 1 seed in the NFC playoffs were fueled by an explosive offense that led the league, averaging 33.2 points per game.
However, their playoff run ended abruptly in the divisional round. Head coach Dan Campbell’s team lost 45-31 at home to the surging Washington Commanders. Despite moving the ball effectively as they had all season, the Lions were hampered by turnovers, including three interceptions thrown by quarterback Jared Goff, though their offense remained potent.
Since that defeat, opposing NFL teams have raided the Lions’ coaching staff. The most significant departure was offensive coordinator Ben Johnson, who was hired as the Chicago Bears’ new head coach. Johnson, named the league’s top assistant coach this season, was instrumental in the Lions’ success with his creative play-calling. Now, the Lions are searching for a replacement, with Denver Broncos passing game coordinator John Morton emerging as a top candidate, according to NFL insiders Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero.
Morton may have opportunity with Lions
The Broncos had a strong season, securing their first AFC playoff berth since 2015. Rookie quarterback Bo Nix claimed the starting role early in the year, leading Denver’s offense to a 10th-place finish in scoring with 27.1 points per game.
The Broncos excelled in the passing game, with Nix completing 376 of 567 passes for 3,775 yards, 29 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions. Their running game struggled, as Javonte Williams led the team with 513 rushing yards at 3.7 yards per carry, followed by Jaleel McLaughlin’s 496 yards and 4.4 yards per carry.
Wide receiver Courtland Sutton was a standout, hauling in 81 passes for 1,081 yards and 8 touchdowns. Marvin Mims also contributed, catching 39 passes for 503 yards and 6 touchdowns. Morton played a significant role in Denver’s success through the air.
Morton has extensive NFL experience, having coached with the Packers, Raiders, Jaguars, Chargers, 49ers, Saints, Jets, and Lions before joining the Broncos. He served as the Jets’ offensive coordinator in 2017 but was dismissed after one season, as the team ranked 24th in scoring and 28th in total offense.
