John Morton is heading back to the postseason - just not with the team many expected.
After a frustrating year in Detroit that saw the Lions finish 9-8 and miss the playoffs, Morton was let go from Dan Campbell’s staff following an underwhelming season offensively. Now, he's resurfaced in Denver, joining the Broncos as a consultant ahead of their AFC Championship matchup against the New England Patriots.
It’s a notable development for Morton, whose offensive acumen is still held in high regard around the league, even if things didn’t click in Detroit. His addition to the Broncos’ staff, first reported by ESPN’s Adam Schefter, marks his first significant move since parting ways with the Lions - and it comes at a critical time for Denver.
Morton Rejoins Payton in Familiar Territory
Morton’s relationship with Broncos head coach Sean Payton goes way back. The two worked together in New Orleans, where Morton served as a passing game coordinator and offensive assistant during the 2006 season.
More recently, Morton was part of Denver’s staff in 2023 and 2024 as the pass game coordinator. So this isn’t unfamiliar territory - it’s more of a reunion.
Payton clearly values what Morton brings to the table, and with the Broncos just one win away from the Super Bowl, every edge matters. Even if Morton’s role is limited, his experience in designing and adjusting passing concepts could be a helpful asset as Denver prepares for a tough Patriots defense.
Broncos Face Uphill Battle Without Bo Nix
Of course, the Broncos’ biggest challenge heading into the AFC title game isn’t on the sideline - it’s under center. Rookie quarterback Bo Nix suffered a broken ankle in Denver’s win over the Buffalo Bills, a brutal blow for a team that had been riding his steady play throughout the postseason.
That means Jarrett Stidham is expected to start against his former team. The 2019 fourth-round pick by New England will now be tasked with leading a Cinderella run against one of the hottest defenses in football.
It’s a tall order. The Patriots have been suffocating on that side of the ball in recent weeks, and with Drake Maye continuing to look every bit like a postseason MVP candidate, Denver enters this matchup as a clear underdog.
A Familiar Face in the Postseason Picture
As for Detroit fans, Morton’s presence in the AFC Championship might stir mixed feelings. His tenure with the Lions didn’t exactly inspire confidence, and the offense never quite found its rhythm under his guidance. Still, seeing him land on his feet - and potentially reach the Super Bowl - might raise some eyebrows in the Motor City.
That said, Lions fans still have one familiar face to root for: Matthew Stafford. The former franchise quarterback is set to lead the Los Angeles Rams into a postseason clash with the Seattle Seahawks. After a strong season and plenty of goodwill left over from his Detroit days, Stafford remains a sentimental favorite for many fans back home.
As for Morton, his postseason stay in Denver could be short-lived - especially if the Patriots continue their dominant run. But for now, he’s back in the mix, back with Payton, and back in the conversation.