As the NFL offseason begins, speculation is growing about the future of Detroit Lions running back David Montgomery. Trade rumors have intensified, but Jahmyr Gibbs made it clear where he stands: he wants Montgomery to remain in Detroit.
Speaking with the Detroit Free Press during Pro Bowl week, Gibbs voiced strong support for his backfield teammate.
“Of course I want David back,” Gibbs said. “The whole team would want David back, but it’s ultimately up to him. He’s going to do what’s best for him and his family and whatever he decides to do I’m going to support 100%. But of course we want him back, though.”
Those comments reflect the current situation in Detroit. The Lions have not announced any plans to move Montgomery, and the veteran running back has not requested a trade. However, uncertainty remains with the new league year approaching.
Why David Montgomery Trade Rumors Won’t Go Away
Montgomery’s workload declined noticeably during the 2025 season. After sharing carries almost evenly with Gibbs in previous years, he became the clear No. 2 option in Detroit’s offense.
2025 Season Production:
Jahmyr Gibbs: 320 touches, 1,839 total yards, 18 touchdowns
David Montgomery: 182 touches, 908 total yards, 8 touchdowns
Montgomery recorded career lows in both touches and yardage and failed to reach 10 carries in any of the final eight games of the season, fueling speculation about his role going forward.
David Montgomery Contract Details Add to the Speculation
Montgomery is scheduled to earn a $5.49 million base salary in 2026, with $1.75 million guaranteed, under the extension he signed in October 2024.
That contract makes him:
Affordable for Detroit
Attractive to potential trade partners
A possible cap-saving option if released
With trade discussions typically heating up around the NFL Combine, Montgomery’s name is expected to surface in league conversations.
Montgomery Still Views Himself as a Starting Running Back
Despite the reduced workload, Montgomery believes he remains a starter-caliber player. During Super Bowl radio row appearances, including on the Chris Simms Unbuttoned podcast, he addressed his mindset.
“No question,” Montgomery said when asked if he still sees himself as a starting running back. “Everybody who is a competitor wants to play and everybody wants to be involved.”
He also highlighted his team-first mentality.
“The good thing about this thing is I’m an incredible teammate and I’ll do whatever it is to ensure that my team is going in the right direction,” he said. “But I also want to be a part of that also.”
Montgomery added that he has already spoken with new offensive coordinator Drew Petzing, who expressed a desire to keep him involved in the offense and referenced Super Bowl expectations for 2026.
What This Means for the Detroit Lions
When healthy, Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery form one of the NFL’s best running back duos. Gibbs’ public support underscores Montgomery’s importance not only on the field but inside the locker room.
Whether the Lions:
Keep Montgomery
Explore a trade
Or redefine his role under Petzing
The decision will be made carefully. For now, one thing is clear: Montgomery’s teammates hope the partnership in Detroit is far from over.
