The Detroit Lions are searching for a new offensive coordinator after moving on from John Morton on January 6, ending his tenure after just one season. With head coach Dan Campbell taking over offensive play-calling duties for much of the year, Morton’s dismissal was largely expected and seen as a matter of timing rather than surprise.
Campbell’s increased role on offense became a focal point following the Lions’ season-ending 19–16 victory over the Chicago Bears. After the game, he was asked whether he would continue calling plays during the 2026–27 season, and the Lions coach made it clear that the decision remains under consideration.
“I’m open to anything. I don’t know exactly where I’m at with that yet,” Campbell said. He noted that one benefit of handling play-calling himself would be continuity within the coaching staff. “You don’t have to worry about somebody else leaving. You don’t have to worry about your play-caller leaving. So, that would be one of the perks of it.”
Campbell stressed that no final determination has been made and that his focus is on what best serves the team moving forward. “I’m going to think through all of that,” he said. “If I believe that’s what’s best for us and I feel good about it, then I will. If I just feel like, ‘Eh,’ then I won’t do it.”
Typically, the offensive coordinator’s primary responsibility is calling plays and shaping the offensive identity, making the role a critical one for Detroit as it looks to take the next step. While Campbell’s direct involvement provides stability, the organization may prefer a coordinator who can fully dedicate attention to the offense.
That plan, however, could be complicated by recent developments. One of the Lions’ top early targets for the offensive coordinator position is now believed to be in line for a bigger opportunity elsewhere, potentially taking him off Detroit’s radar.
As the offseason unfolds, the Lions face a key decision—either entrust Campbell with full control of the offense or pivot quickly to secure the right coordinator before their preferred options disappear.
