Could the Lions’ Quiet Offseason Plans Be Shaken by a Key Coaching Departure?
The Detroit Lions aren’t expected to be major players in the offseason shuffle. They’ve got a strong foundation, a clear identity, and a roster that doesn’t need a full overhaul-just some fine-tuning.
A new center and some reinforcements along the offensive line are on the wish list, but the core is intact. This isn’t a team in rebuild mode-it’s a contender looking to reload.
That’s why the idea of trading away a starter feels like a stretch. But if there’s one name that could creep onto the trade block, it’s veteran running back David Montgomery.
Montgomery’s first season in Detroit didn’t go quite the way he-or the team-might have envisioned. Sharing the backfield with Jahmyr Gibbs, the touches weren’t always there, and his frustration with his role was no secret. And when general manager Brad Holmes was asked about Montgomery’s future during his end-of-season press conference, his answer left the door open-just a crack.
“Obviously, I know it was a tough year for him in terms of the lack of touches,” Holmes said. “I’m not going to say I went into it planning for it to be that way… Those are discussions that we’re going to have to have a lot more depth in terms of, what’s the best plan for him moving forward. Is that somewhere else, or whatever the case may be.”
That’s not exactly a firm commitment. Holmes made it clear he respects Montgomery and appreciates what he’s brought to the table, but he also didn’t rule out the possibility of moving on if the right offer came in.
The Scottie Montgomery Factor
There’s another wrinkle to all of this, and it’s not on the field-it’s on the sidelines. Assistant head coach and wide receivers coach Scottie Montgomery, who’s built a strong bond with David Montgomery, is in the mix for the Baltimore Ravens’ offensive coordinator vacancy. And if he lands that job, it could have a ripple effect in Detroit.
Scottie Montgomery has been one of the most trusted voices on the Lions’ staff since arriving in 2023. He’s not just a coach-he’s a connector.
When David Montgomery went down with a knee injury in 2024, Scottie was one of the first to reach out. That kind of relationship matters, especially in a league where trust between players and coaches can be the difference between staying or wanting out.
If Scottie heads to Baltimore, it could be the tipping point in Detroit’s decision on David Montgomery. Without that key voice in the building, the running back’s future with the team becomes even murkier.
A Backfield Built Around Gibbs
The Lions’ commitment to Jahmyr Gibbs is clear. They’ve leaned into his explosiveness and versatility, and he’s become a focal point of their offensive identity.
That’s not to say there’s no room for Montgomery-far from it. When healthy, he’s a consistent 1,000-yard rusher and brings a physicality that complements Gibbs’ speed perfectly.
The one-two punch was supposed to be Detroit’s version of thunder and lightning. Or, as some fans dubbed them, Sonic and Knuckles.
But the offensive line struggled this past season, and without consistent push up front, the run game lost some of its bite. That, in turn, may have strained the balance between the backs, and Montgomery’s reduced role didn’t go unnoticed.
What’s Next?
If the Lions do decide to explore a trade, Montgomery won’t come cheap. He’s still one of the league’s more reliable backs, and in a market where several teams are desperate for a proven runner, he’d draw plenty of interest. Whether it’s a team looking to stabilize its offense or one trying to add toughness in the red zone, Montgomery’s value is still high.
For now, it’s all about timing-and coaching. If Scottie Montgomery heads out the door, the Lions may have no choice but to reassess their approach to the backfield. And if the right trade package lands on Brad Holmes’ desk, it might be too good to pass up.
Detroit doesn’t need a major shake-up this offseason. But losing a coach who’s been a key bridge between players and staff? That could be the first domino to fall.