Detroit, Michigan, January 14, 2026
The Detroit Lions are contemplating the potential trade of running back David Montgomery due to his reduced role in the offense during the 2025 season. General manager Brad Holmes highlighted the need for an evaluation of Montgomery’s future with the team. Despite a successful first year with the Lions and a lucrative contract extension, Montgomery’s playing time has diminished, raising questions about optimal player utilization within the team’s strategy moving forward.
Detroit Lions Explore Trading Running Back David Montgomery
Detroit, Michigan – The Detroit Lions are considering the potential trade of running back David Montgomery, as confirmed by general manager Brad Holmes. Holmes expressed the need for a thorough review of Montgomery’s future with the team while recognizing his contributions. The general manager emphasized the significance of ensuring that Montgomery’s skills are effectively utilized, whether that means remaining with the Lions or finding a new opportunity elsewhere.
Montgomery, aged 28, joined the Lions in 2023 after spending four productive seasons with the Chicago Bears. In his inaugural year with Detroit, he made a considerable impact, rushing for 1,015 yards and scoring 13 touchdowns to elevate the team’s offensive performance. However, with the emergence of Jahmyr Gibbs as the premier running back in the 2025 season, Montgomery’s role has notably decreased. His carries dropped from 185 in 2024 to 158 in 2025, and his playing time reduced from around 28 snaps per game to just 24. Throughout this period, Montgomery maintained a positive demeanor, choosing not to publicly voice dissatisfaction with his diminished role.
The Lions extended Montgomery’s contract in October 2024, securing him through 2027 with a two-year, $18.25 million extension that included $10.5 million in guaranteed funds. This move positioned Montgomery among the ten highest-paid running backs in the NFL. Despite this lucrative extension, the limited usage of Montgomery on the field has led teams and fans alike to speculate on what the future holds for him in Detroit.
The contemplation to trade Montgomery illustrates the changing dynamics within the Lions’ backfield, with the team prioritizing optimal player utilization and improved performance. As the Lions move forward in their evaluation of the roster and plotting their strategic direction for the upcoming seasons, further developments surrounding Montgomery are anticipated.
Understanding the Lions’ Consideration for David Montgomery
Reasons Behind the Trade Consideration
General manager Brad Holmes is leading discussions about Montgomery’s future, primarily due to his reduced role within the offense this past season. The combination of a high-profile extension and limited usage spots Montgomery in a complex position for the team’s future plans.
David Montgomery’s 2025 Performance Overview
Throughout the 2025 season, Montgomery carried the ball 158 times, a decline from his work in 2024, while his participation in games dropped. He has demonstrated professionalism, consistently maintaining a positive approach despite these shifts in his playing time and responsibilities.
Contract Analysis
Montgomery’s contract, which has solid guaranteed money, places him in a favorable financial position among league running backs. Nevertheless, the Lions’ strategic choices regarding the roster optimization may influence how they move forward with this asset.
Future Scenarios for David Montgomery
As the Lions strategically weigh their options, the club is focused on engaging in discussions that advocate both for Montgomery’s personal career interests and the broader goals of the team. This multifaceted evaluation process is crucial as the Lions seek to build a competitive lineup.
Key Features of the Detroit Lions’ Consideration to Trade David Montgomery
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Player Involved | David Montgomery |
| Position | Running Back |
| Contract Status | Two-year, $18.25 million extension through 2027, including $10.5 million guaranteed |
| Performance in 2025 | Reduced carries and playing time compared to 2024 |
| Team’s Consideration | Evaluating potential trade options to optimize roster and performance |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why are the Detroit Lions considering trading David Montgomery?
The Lions are evaluating Montgomery’s future with the team due to his reduced role in the offense during the 2025 season, despite a contract extension in 2024. General manager Brad Holmes has acknowledged the need for discussions regarding Montgomery’s utilization and potential trade.
What was David Montgomery’s performance in the 2025 season?
In the 2025 season, Montgomery’s carries decreased from 185 in 2024 to 158, and his playing time reduced from approximately 28 snaps per game to 24. Despite these changes, he maintained a positive attitude and did not publicly express dissatisfaction with his reduced role.
What is the status of David Montgomery’s contract with the Lions?
In October 2024, the Lions extended Montgomery’s contract through 2027 with a two-year, $18.25 million extension, including $10.5 million in guaranteed money. This extension positioned Montgomery among the top ten highest-paid running backs in the NFL.
What are the next steps for the Detroit Lions regarding David Montgomery?
The Lions are expected to engage in discussions to determine the best course of action for Montgomery’s future, considering both the player’s interests and the team’s strategic goals. Further developments are anticipated as the team evaluates its roster and plans for the upcoming seasons.
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DETROIT STAFF WRITER The DETROIT STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREDetroitMI.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Detroit, Wayne County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Movement Electronic Music Festival, Detroit Grand Prix, and America's Thanksgiving Parade. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Detroit Regional Chamber and Focus HOPE, plus leading businesses in automotive and healthcare that power the local economy such as General Motors, Ford Motor Company, and Henry Ford Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREGrandRapids.com, HERENorthville.com, HERENovi.com, and HEREPlymouth.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Michigan's dynamic landscape.
