By Sunday 
Lions’ Coaching Staff Faces More Departures as Jets Continue Their Raid
Jets Continue to Target Detroit’s Coaching Talent
The New York Jets are making their presence felt in Detroit—just not on the field. The Lions’ coaching staff has been hit hard by departures this offseason, and the latest casualty is tight ends coach Steve Heiden, who is heading to New York to take on a new role under head coach Aaron Glenn.
According to reports from the NFL Network, Heiden has agreed to join the Jets as their offensive line coach, marking yet another significant loss for Detroit. Meanwhile, passing game coordinator Tanner Engstrand remains a strong contender for the Jets’ offensive coordinator position, further intensifying the coaching shake-up.
John Morton Steps In Amid Coaching Exodus
While the Lions continue to lose key staff members, they are also making moves to reinforce their offensive strategy. Detroit recently hired John Morton as its new offensive coordinator, entrusting him with one of the most potent offenses in the league.
Morton is no stranger to the Lions organization, having worked with the team in 2022. He played a crucial role in developing the offensive scheme that thrived under former coordinator Ben Johnson. With a coaching background influenced by respected figures like Jon Gruden, Sean Payton, and Jim Harbaugh, Morton brings experience and tactical expertise to his new position.
Jon Gruden Endorses Morton’s Hiring
Former NFL head coach and Super Bowl champion Jon Gruden is a strong supporter of Detroit’s latest hire. Speaking to the Detroit Free Press, Gruden praised Morton’s ability to lead an offense effectively.
“I hope Detroit gets him,” Gruden said. “I know there’s other teams that are trying to get him, and I know Denver doesn’t want to lose him. But … if you can add Johnny Morton, that’d be a good reason to go have a glass of cabernet, the best one you’ve got.”
Gruden’s connection with Morton runs deep. The two first worked together in 1998 when Morton began his coaching career with the Oakland Raiders under Gruden. Their paths crossed again in 2019 when Gruden returned to lead the Raiders. Now, with Morton stepping into the offensive coordinator role in Detroit, Gruden believes he is well-prepared for success.
“And I know they lost a heck of a coach, but John Morton, you talk about a guy that can scheme them up,” Gruden added. “Man, he’s at the top of the food chain in terms of the guys I’ve worked with.”
What’s Next for the Lions?
As the Lions adjust to their rapidly changing coaching staff, the front office will need to act quickly to fill key vacancies. While Morton’s hiring is a positive step, Detroit cannot afford to lose too many more staff members if they want to maintain the momentum they have built in recent seasons.
Meanwhile, the Jets’ aggressive approach to assembling their coaching staff signals their commitment to revitalizing their team. With Heiden already on board and Engstrand potentially following, New York seems determined to build a strong foundation for the future.
For the Lions, the challenge now is to balance continuity with fresh ideas as they prepare for the next NFL season.