The Detroit Lions reshaped their backfield this week, trading veteran running back David Montgomery to the Houston Texans in exchange for offensive lineman Juice Scruggs and two draft picks. The move comes after a 9-8 season that ended without a playoff berth and signals a shift toward a younger offensive core.
With Montgomery’s exit, the Lions find themselves at a pivotal moment. His departure raises important questions about former first-round pick Jahmyr Gibbs, who is up for a contract extension this offseason.
Montgomery was productive in his three seasons in Detroit. As ESPN’s Adam Schefter noted on X, “David Montgomery, in three years with the Lions, had 2,506 rushing yards and 26 TDs. Detroit will have Jahmyr Gibbs eligible for a contract extension this offseason.”
Montgomery added 650 receiving yards during that span and played a key role in Detroit’s offense, particularly in short-yardage and red-zone situations.
Even in 2025, considered statistically the least productive season of his career, Montgomery rushed for 716 yards on 4.5 yards per carry and scored eight touchdowns. His consistency helped stabilize the offense while Gibbs developed into a dynamic three-down threat.
Gibbs, selected 12th overall in the 2023 draft, has steadily expanded his role. He handled a career-high 320 touches in 2025 and totaled 1,839 yards from scrimmage with 18 touchdowns while appearing in all 17 games. He has been top-10 in all-purpose yards and has become the clear focal point of the Lions’ ground game.
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The financial side of things is also significant. Gibbs’ fifth-year option for 2027 projects at $14,293,000, which would rank among the highest cap hits for running backs. An extension could make him one of the league’s top-paid players at the position. The decision may hinge on how Detroit values long-term stability at running back in a league increasingly cautious about second contracts at the position.
The Lions appear to be positioning themselves for that choice. Trading Montgomery not only frees snaps but also clarifies the backfield roles. Detroit is expected to add depth through free agency or the draft, but Gibbs is now the unquestioned lead option.
How the Lions handle his extension could shape the franchise’s offensive identity for years to come. With the new league year approaching, Detroit’s next move may prove as crucial as the trade that set it in motion.