David Montgomery is making waves as a Detroit Lion, embodying the tough, resilient rushing style that complements Jahmyr Gibbs perfectly. His presence adds a dynamic edge to the Lions' offense, but there's more to the story.
Montgomery, a seasoned veteran, is eager to be recognized as the RB1 he truly is. Despite finding success in Detroit, he’s looking to rebound from a 2025 season where he felt underutilized under the guidance of John Morton and Dan Campbell.
This situation has sparked trade talks, with Montgomery emerging as a valuable asset for the Lions. They might reluctantly consider parting with him if it means gaining draft picks or bolstering their offensive line.
General Manager Brad Holmes didn’t put those rumors to rest during his NFL Combine appearance, stating, "I've been in touch with David, his agent, and his representation. We love David...
But obviously, a player has to want to be at a certain place. Those conversations are still fluid, and we’ll just see how it goes."
If Montgomery hits the trade market, several contenders will likely show interest. The Kansas City Chiefs, struggling with their ground game in 2025, stand out as a potential suitor.
Another team that might benefit from his services is the New York Jets, especially if Breece Hall departs in free agency. Montgomery’s familiarity with Jets' coach Aaron Glenn from their Detroit days could make him a perfect fit for New York’s offense.
Losing Montgomery would undoubtedly impact Detroit’s offensive identity. While they could gain a significant return, relying solely on Gibbs for rushing might be risky unless they strengthen their offensive line. Montgomery’s ability to power through tough defenses, averaging 4.5 yards per carry last season, showcased his value, especially when Gibbs’ speed wasn’t enough to break through.
Holmes clearly values Montgomery’s grit and dedication, but the running back might be seeking new horizons. As Holmes said, we’ll just have to "see how it goes."