David Montgomery’s Role Shrinking in Detroit - and What That Could Mean for His Future
When John Morton was brought in as the Detroit Lions’ offensive coordinator this past offseason, it was clear something was going to shift in the backfield. And whether it’s been Morton calling the plays or head coach Dan Campbell stepping in, that shift has stuck: Jahmyr Gibbs is now the clear lead back, and David Montgomery’s role has steadily diminished.
Earlier in the season, Campbell made it known that he wanted Montgomery more involved alongside Gibbs. And for a brief stretch, that’s exactly what happened - Montgomery logged 39 carries over a three-game span.
But since then, the touches have dried up. Over the last five games, he’s had just 32 carries.
Even more telling? Just 37 offensive snaps in the last two games.
Now, part of that is situational. Gibbs has become a true offensive weapon, especially with tight end Sam LaPorta sidelined.
He’s not just a change-of-pace back anymore - he’s a focal point. And when Detroit is playing from behind, as they were for much of their Week 15 loss to the Rams, Gibbs naturally gets the nod in passing situations.
That game script doesn’t favor Montgomery, who thrives when the Lions are ahead and looking to grind out clock with power runs.
Still, Montgomery made the most of his limited chances against the Rams. He had six carries for 31 yards in the first half, then just one more the rest of the way - a direct-snap, one-yard touchdown in the Wildcat late in the fourth quarter.
That was it. One of the league’s more physical backs, and a guy who’s proven he can carry the load, reduced to a cameo role.
It’s a tough pill to swallow for a player who’s still capable of making an impact. And that’s where the conversation begins to shift toward the offseason.
There’s already chatter - and yes, it’s going to ruffle some feathers in Detroit - that the Lions might consider trading Montgomery. Not because he’s lost a step, but because his role is shrinking, his age is creeping up (he turns 29 next June), and the team has to start thinking about long-term roster construction and cap flexibility.
From a pure football standpoint, the logic is there. Montgomery still runs with power, vision, and toughness.
He could absolutely help a team that needs a workhorse back or a reliable short-yardage option. But in Detroit, with Gibbs ascending and the offense evolving, it’s fair to wonder if there’s enough room for both.
Financially, it’s not the cleanest move - there would be some dead money to absorb, and the cap savings wouldn’t be massive. But it’s not prohibitive either. If the Lions believe they can reallocate those resources more effectively, or if they think they can get value back in a trade, it’s a conversation that has to be on the table.
That doesn’t mean fans will like it. Montgomery is a hard-nosed runner who fits the gritty identity Campbell has built in Detroit.
He’s been productive, reliable, and a leader in the locker room. Moving on from a player like that is never easy - and it’s never popular.
But football is a business, and sometimes tough decisions are part of building a sustainable contender. If Montgomery’s role continues to shrink and the Lions believe they’ve got their backfield of the future in Gibbs, then an offseason move - while difficult - might be the right call for both sides.
For now, Montgomery remains a Lion. But come spring, don’t be surprised if his name starts surfacing in trade talks.