How Detroit Lions OC John Morton Helped Ben Johnson Find His ‘Next Ben Johnson’
Detroit Lions offensive coordinator John Morton played a key role in helping Chicago Bears head coach Ben Johnson land his new offensive coordinator, Declan Doyle. While speaking at the NFL Scouting Combine, Johnson shared that he reached out to Morton—who had worked with Doyle in the past—to get his opinion.
According to Johnson, Morton gave Doyle a glowing endorsement, calling him “another Ben Johnson.” That was all Johnson needed to hear.
“He thinks very much like me,” Johnson said. “It’s been awesome getting him into the building… Extremely detailed, extremely organized. The age does not matter.”
At just 28 years old, Doyle is now one of the youngest OCs in the league. Though Johnson will call plays for the Bears in 2025, this role gives Doyle a chance to learn from one of the top offensive minds in the game.
Doyle previously served as the tight ends coach for the Denver Broncos and spent four seasons as an offensive assistant for the New Orleans Saints before that. If Johnson’s instincts are right, the Bears may have found themselves an offensive star in the making.
John Morton’s Influence: How He Helped Ben Johnson Find His Replacement
