When Detroit Lions offensive coordinator John Morton met with reporters this week, he didn’t dodge responsibility. Instead, he owned it. Morton admitted he’s fallen short in one key area, getting Jameson Williams more involved in the offense.
“I looked at everything, as far as that,” Morton said as quoted by ESPN. “I’m going to do a better job with that. But there has been opportunities where it just didn’t happen. It’s not like we aren’t going to try to target him. So that was the biggest thing.”
For a coordinator leading one of the league’s most explosive offenses, Morton’s honesty was refreshing. He knows that finding ways to maximize Williams’ blazing speed is critical as Detroit chases a Super Bowl.
“I Failed Him”: Morton Holds Himself Accountable
“So I looked at everything, and I failed him. That’s what I told him,” Morton said bluntly. “I have to do a better job with that. But it’s a two-way street. We definitely looked at that.”
Morton met with Williams privately during the Lions’ bye week to go over missed opportunities and design better ways to feature him, especially on third downs, where defenses are doubling the 24-year-old receiver.
Williams, who has 17 receptions for 289 yards and two touchdowns this season, has handled it all with professionalism. He hasn’t complained, hasn’t pouted, and Morton clearly appreciates that.
Morton Praises Williams’ Work Ethic and Maturity
“He doesn’t say anything. He just goes and plays,” Morton said. “Like I said, ‘I wouldn’t fault you if you were pissed at me,’ because I’ve coached that position, I’ve played that position. And I know he works too hard. But we’ve got to make sure that we’re going out and doing the right thing, the right techniques and this and that. It’s not just him. It’s everybody.”
That comment speaks volumes about the culture Dan Campbell and Brad Holmes have built in Detroit. Players and coaches alike are open, accountable, and willing to self-correct. It’s why this team has evolved from a rebuild into a legitimate championship contender.
Why This Matters for the Detroit Lions
Morton’s words aren’t just talk; they’re a reflection of how the Lions offense operates. The coaching staff is collaborative, transparent, and constantly seeking improvement. For Williams, it’s an encouraging sign that his role could grow as the season progresses.
Detroit has one of the NFL’s most balanced attacks, but unlocking Williams’ deep-threat potential could take the offense to another level. If Morton follows through on his promise, Jameson Williams could become a bigger part of the story down the stretch.
The Bottom Line
John Morton didn’t sugarcoat anything, he flat-out said he failed Jameson Williams and plans to fix it. That type of leadership sets Detroit apart from most teams. With accountability at every level, it’s no wonder the Lions are playing like one of the NFL’s true contenders.
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