By Moses Joshua 
Even with a temporary play-calling shift, Morton’s influence remains central to Detroit’s offensive success
Campbell’s Bold Play-Calling Shift
When Dan Campbell stepped in to take over play-calling duties for the Detroit Lions against the Washington Commanders, reactions were swift. Fans and media immediately asked, “What’s going on with the offense?”
But Campbell was quick to clarify that the move wasn’t a critique of offensive coordinator John Morton. “It was just, ‘Let’s try something a little different.’ I know what I want to do. I know how I want to do it,” Campbell explained. The decision reflected a desire for tactical flexibility, not a demotion of Morton’s role.
Collaboration Remains at the Core
Campbell emphasized that the change was a team effort. “This is a collaborative effort now. I was taking input from John Morton that whole time, and the other coaches. ‘Man, what do you think here, third-down.’ This is all-encompassing. We all work together. Coaches did a helluva job.”
Morton’s expertise, particularly in the passing game, continues to be invaluable. “John Morton is vital to me. He gives me critical information that deals with the pass game. That’s his baby, man. That’s his bread and butter,” Campbell noted, highlighting the coordinator’s ongoing influence despite the temporary shift in responsibilities.
Acknowledging the Human Side
Changing play-callers can be sensitive, and Campbell addressed the human element openly. “It’s honest. It was he and I and we were good. And it’s like I told him, ‘I need you.’ But look, if you’re him, of course it probably doesn’t feel too good. But he’s a grinder, he’s a worker. He just tries to help and give you anything that you can possibly need for the game. I thought he was outstanding today.”
Results Speak for Themselves
The decision paid off on the field. Detroit looked balanced, confident, and explosive, finishing with 546 total yards and 30 first downs. Scoring on nearly every meaningful drive, the Lions rediscovered their offensive rhythm without undermining Morton’s central role.
Campbell summed it up plainly: “Let’s just see if a different play-caller can get us a little momentum, that’s all, and it’s nothing more than that.” The spark worked, but it also reinforced that success is a product of the entire coaching staff’s chemistry, expertise, and collaboration.