So much of the Detroit Lions' offseason and camp was defined by pundits doubting how the franchise would respond after losing both coordinators. It is understandable when considering what both Aaron Glenn and Ben Johnson meant to the franchise. While some fans might say the loss of Johnson is mostly overblown, that doesn't change that the Lions' new offensive coordinator still has big shoes to fill.
Detroit OC John Morton is stepping into a great situation with a treasure trove of weapons, but the Lions are coming off an incredible 2024 offensive performance. It's even at the point where what Johnson could potentially do for the Chicago Bears is garnering more interest than what Morton's outlook looks like.
Lions OC John Morton Has a Chance to Quickly Change Narrative in Week 1
On paper, Morton has what it takes to instantly alter this narrative and remind the league of Detroit's talent.
What is so frustrating about the coverage around the situation is the disrespect for the Lions' veteran offense. Quarterback Jared Goff has been consistently productive with both the Rams and Lions. Johnson's departure isn't going to damage how great Goff is or the obvious talent of star wideout Amon-Ra St. Brown. That's without mentioning rookie WR Isaac TeSlaa, as well as tight end Sam LaPorta.
Add in the speed of Jameson Williams, as well as Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery — arguably the best backfield duo in the league, and there aren't many ways Morton can mess this up. Lions fans should expect fewer trick plays and fewer SportsCenter moments now that Johnson is gone, but those types of moments don't necessarily win Super Bowls.
Besides, it was the talent on the Lions roster that allowed Johnson's creativity to shine. He doesn't have that luxury in Chicago.
Even if Morton doesn't have trick-play ability, a more traditional offense can still win in the NFL, and that's something the Lions OC must prove as early as Week 1.
All the buzz is around Micah Parsons and what Green Bay's ceiling might be after adding the former Dallas star. Despite beating the Green Bay Packers twice last season, the Lions are 2.5-point underdogs in the season opener, according to FanDuel Sportsbook.
It's a narrative that Morton can instantly kill if his offense can come out hot against the favored Packers.
If Morton can accomplish offensive success in Week 1, all the questions and narratives that were pushed through the offseason and into camp are going to completely fall away. Beating the Packers with a strong offensive statement is what Lions fans are hoping for to set an early tone for the new coordinator against a hated rival.