David Montgomery has built his career on toughness and professionalism, and he isn’t about to change course now.

Following a 2025 season in which his usage declined down the stretch, the Detroit Lions running back finally weighed in on the discussion surrounding his reduced role. His message was direct and unbothered: the situation isn’t about touches being taken away—it’s about what gives the team the best chance to succeed.

A Shared Backfield Isn’t a Problem

When asked about the perception that Jahmyr Gibbs was cutting into his opportunities, Montgomery rejected the idea outright.

“I wouldn’t call it dealing with it, and I wouldn’t say stealing,” Montgomery explained in comments shared by Lions OnSI. “It’s more about being on a team that’s fortunate enough to have two players like that.”

He acknowledged the competitive nature that comes with professional sports, noting that every player wants to be involved. Still, Montgomery stressed that his priority remains the bigger picture.

“I’m a competitor like anyone else at this level. Of course, I want to be out there. But I’m also a great teammate, and I’ll do whatever is necessary to make sure the team is headed in the right direction. I want to contribute to that however I can.”

As the season progressed, Detroit increasingly leaned on Gibbs, which was reflected in Montgomery’s playing time. He wrapped up the year with 716 rushing yards and eight touchdowns, but logged more than 35 percent of the offensive snaps in only one of the Lions’ final five regular-season contests.

Even so, Montgomery made it clear that sharing responsibilities doesn’t lessen his importance—it enhances the roster as a whole.

Processing a Season That Fell Short

Expectations were sky-high in Detroit entering 2025, with Super Bowl hopes driving the narrative. Instead, the Lions finished at the bottom of the NFC North and failed to reach the playoffs.

When asked to pinpoint what went wrong, Montgomery deferred to the leadership above him.

“I honestly don’t have that answer,” he said. “That’s why Brad and Coach Campbell are in those positions—to figure those things out.”

What he does know, he added, is that general manager Brad Holmes and head coach Dan Campbell are relentless workers who won’t let one disappointing year define the organization.

“This isn’t something we’re going to dwell on,” Montgomery said. “It’ll get fixed. We’ll be back where we were before. Our goal hasn’t changed—we’re chasing a Super Bowl.”

His confidence in the Lions’ leadership remains firm, despite the setbacks.

Optimism Around a New Offensive Voice

Montgomery’s belief in the team’s direction is also tied to Detroit’s decision to bring in Drew Petzing as offensive coordinator, replacing John Morton. Petzing previously oversaw Arizona’s offense and played a major role in building a run-heavy scheme that helped James Conner post back-to-back 1,000-yard rushing seasons.

Montgomery said he’s already had early conversations with Petzing and liked what he heard.

“I talked with him briefly,” Montgomery said. “It’s clear he understands what needs to be done and he’s ready for the challenge. I’m excited to see what he brings and how we can take a step forward from last year.”

Given Montgomery’s physical running style, Petzing’s track record offers plenty of reason for optimism.

Though his role evolved during the 2025 campaign, Montgomery’s outlook hasn’t wavered. He still views himself as an essential part of Detroit’s offense—whether that means carrying the football, picking up blocks, or doing whatever the team needs.

Fewer carries, in his eyes, aren’t a warning sign.

They’re proof the Lions have depth.

And Montgomery is convinced that depth will help Detroit find its way back into serious Super Bowl contention sooner rather than later.