The Detroit Lions are rebuilding their coaching staff after significant changes following the conclusion of their 2024 season. After promoting Kelvin Sheppard from linebackers coach to defensive coordinator to replace Aaron Glenn, the team is now targeting Denver Broncos pass game coordinator Johnny Morton to fill the offensive coordinator role vacated by Ben Johnson.
Glenn and Johnson were among the top head coaching prospects in the NFL this year, so their departures weren’t unexpected. Glenn joined the New York Jets, while Johnson stayed in the NFC North by taking the head coaching job with the Chicago Bears.
With no clear internal candidate to replace Johnson, the Lions looked externally and are close to hiring Morton, who previously worked with the team as a senior offensive assistant in 2022. Morton has over two decades of NFL coaching experience and recently helped the Broncos’ passing game excel under rookie quarterback Bo Nix.
Morton’s familiarity with Detroit and head coach Dan Campbell should ease his transition as he steps into his new role. With the key coordinator positions now filled, Campbell will turn his attention to rebuilding the rest of the coaching staff, following additional departures in recent weeks.
