The Detroit Lions' biggest upcoming offseason decision is how to replace current offensive coordinator John Morton. Previous seasons have proven all the needed pieces are in place for this to be one of the league's leading offensive attacks. Morton isn't the answer and already appears to be aware that his tenure is coming to an end.
With this in mind, let's look at the top options to replace Morton early in the 2026 offseason. Coaches that would inspire a level of confidence for a frustrated fan base after a lost 2025 season. Starting with a familiar face that could be the perfect mix of youth and experience.
1. J.T. Barrett
Perhaps the way to revitalize a version of Ben Johnson's Detroit offense is to steal from his coaching tree. When Johnson left the Lions to take a head coaching role with the Chicago Bears, Barrett followed. The young coach had previously served as Detroit's assistant quarterbacks coach in the 2023 and 2024 seasons. Now, amid a breakout season working with Caleb Williams as Chicago's quarterback coach, a promotion might be in order. The potential hiring would unquestionably be in line with the league's recent youth movement.
Barrett was in the league as recently as 2019, spending time on the Pittsburgh Steelers practice squad. The signal caller would follow this up with the CFL's Edmonton Elks joining the roster in the 2022 season. This tenure ended with an injury, opening the door for Barrett to join Johnson's staff.
For Detroit, it is a gamble to bring in a young coach with zero play-calling experience; however, it could be the best way to rediscover the magic of Johnson's offense. Barrett has spent the last four years working under the former Lions' OC and is the perfect gamble if Detroit wants to revisit the past.
2. Eric Bieniemy
Another member of Ben Johnson's staff is unquestionably going to get renewed interest as a potential play caller after spending a season in Chicago. Eric Bieniemy is currently the running backs coach for a duo of D'Andre Swift and Kyle Monangai, who have combined for over 1,800 rushing yards in the 2025 season. It is a great accomplishment for a veteran coach who previously served as the Kansas City Chiefs' offensive coordinator when Patrick Mahomes was at his best.
This mix of recent success, coupled with long-term experience, makes Bieniemy at least worth an interview. The fact that you would be stealing the coach from a division rival makes the move all the more tempting. For Bieniemy, it is a chance to call plays for the first time since the 2023 season when serving as the Washington Commanders' OC, working with a limited offensive group.
It appears the coach could have his pick of landing spots, and none should be more enticing than the Lions. Detroit can offer Amon-Ra St. Brown, Jameson Williams, Sam LaPorta, Jahmyr Gibbs, and the stability of quarterback Jared Goff. It is hard to find a better landing spot, making Detroit a great potential fit for Bieniemy.
3. Shannon Dawson
Looking at the college level, Miami Hurricanes OC Shannon Dawson could become a surprising name considered not only for Detroit, but throughout the league. Current Tennessee Titans quarterback Cam Ward played under Dawson and set the franchise record for most passing yardage and touchdowns in a single season. Fast forward a year, and the Hurricanes haven't missed a beat with Dawson taking on former Georgia quarterback Carson Beck and helping lessen turnover concerns as Miami finds itself in the College Football Playoff semifinals.
If Miami wins the next round and continues what has been an unexpected run, there will be increasing interest in Dawson. If the Lions are going to consider coaches at the college level, the OC is at least worth an interview if he's willing to jump to the next level.
Detroit badly needs new life on the offensive side of the equation, giving the franchise a fresh perspective after two seasons defined by injuries and frustrations. Dawson is an unknown, given that he has only coached at the college level, who could potentially raise the ceiling of the Lions' offense. It is at least an avenue worth exploring based on how Miami finishes its playoff run