Detroit Lions Hire John Morton as Offensive Coordinator, Promote Kelvin Sheppard to Defensive Coordinator

The Lions fill key coaching vacancies after losing both coordinators to head coaching roles following a record-breaking season.

John Morton, previously the Denver Broncos' passing game coordinator, returns to Detroit as offensive coordinator, replacing Ben Johnson who became the Chicago Bears' head coach.
Kelvin Sheppard, the Lions' linebackers coach for the past three seasons, has been promoted to defensive coordinator following Aaron Glenn's departure to the New York Jets.
Morton, a Michigan native, has over two decades of coaching experience, including a prior stint with the Lions in 2022 as a senior offensive assistant.
The Lions' offense, which led the NFL in scoring and set franchise records in 2024, will look to maintain its momentum with Morton at the helm.
Head coach Dan Campbell emphasized continuity in offensive terminology to support quarterback Jared Goff, who played at an MVP-caliber level last season.