New Detroit Lions offensive coordinator John Morton readily affirmed that he will serve as the team’s play-caller in 2025.
Morton disclosed the information in a Monday interview with FOX 2. There was some uncertainty about whether it would be him or head coach Dan Campbell who would assume the responsibilities.
When Ben Johnson received his promotion in 2022, Campbell chose to wait for the beginning of the regular season before officially revealing who the play-caller would be.
A Michigan native who has formerly coached within the organization, Morton showed appreciation for receiving a second chance to be an offensive coordinator in the NFL. His last opportunity was with the New York Jets in 2017 and lasted only one season.
Following his time as an offensive assistant with Detroit in 2022, Morton has held the role of passing game coordinator for the Denver Broncos over the past two seasons. Now, he’s coming back to take over Johnson’s role as the architect of Detroit’s offense.
“I believe it’s an incredible opportunity to have another shot,” Morton stated. “Calling plays for the first time with the Jets was quite an experience.” I’ve gained insight from that. However, simply being present at home. I was raised here, and my family remains here. I comprehend what is required. I’ve witnessed the highs and many of the lows. Barry Sanders, I was a fan of Barry Sanders as I grew up. However, this opportunity is truly thrilling. “You don’t receive many of them, and I’m prepared.”
When asked to verify if he’d be the one officially calling the plays for Detroit, Morton reiterated, “I am, yes.”
Insights from New York
The experienced coach gained a lot from his initial opportunity as a coordinator with the Jets. In that scenario, Morton joined a team that already featured several coaches. Consequently, he did not recognize numerous faces within the building.
On this occasion, he comes together with several coaches he collaborated with in 2022. New faces will include running backs coach Tashard Choice and tight ends coach Tyler Roehl. Nonetheless, key staff members like Hank Fraley, Scottie Montgomery, and Mark Brunell continue to be present.
“I simply believe that the circumstance in New York was challenging,” Morton stated. “I got hired and needed to maintain the coaches; I didn’t know anyone there.” Here, I am familiar with people; they recognize me, and I recognize them. We have just completed our staff. I participated in those interviews and can’t express how thrilled I am about the coaches we currently have. It’s large.
His Michigan background will serve as an inspiration for him as he adjusts to the new position. In his youth, he envisioned what it could be like if Detroit clinched the championship.
Now, he has the chance to assist in bringing it to fruition.
“Oh absolutely.” I considered it while I was on my way here. “I witnessed it; I observed it since I was a young child with Billy Sims, and I’ve continued to see it,” Morton clarified. “I notice the expressions on people’s faces, and they’re like, ‘Wow, I really wish (the Lions) could’ve (taken the championship).‘ I understand its significance, and I recognize what this community represents.” It’s working-class, it’s toughness. My father was employed at General Motors for 30 years, I get it. And it’s my responsibility to ensure we achieve that.