The future of the Detroit Lions’ celebrated running back duo may be in question.
For the past three seasons, Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery—nicknamed “Sonic and Knuckles” for their contrasting styles—have powered one of the NFL’s most effective backfields. But with Gibbs emerging as a true offensive centerpiece, the Lions appear open to exploring a potential trade involving Montgomery this offseason.
Brad Holmes Speaks on Montgomery’s Future in Detroit
During his end-of-season press conference Thursday, Lions general manager Brad Holmes addressed Montgomery’s status while speaking with Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press. Holmes made it clear that discussions are ongoing and that the team is prioritizing what’s best for the veteran running back.
“Those are conversations that we’re going to have to have because I’ve got a lot of respect for that player,” Holmes said. “He deserves to be in a situation where his skill set can be utilized. We’d love it for it to be here, but if it can’t be here, then you have to see what you can work out that’s best for him.”
Holmes emphasized that no final decision has been made, but acknowledged that Montgomery’s role diminished during the 2025 season.
“I hope it doesn’t [mean we have to trade him], because we love David Montgomery,” Holmes added. “He’s a good football player, and I wish we would’ve been able to get more utilization from him.”
David Montgomery’s Production With the Lions
Since joining Detroit, Montgomery has been a reliable and physical presence in the backfield. Over three seasons with the Lions, he totaled:
2,506 rushing yards
23 rushing touchdowns
76 receptions
650 receiving yards
However, the 2025 season marked a downturn statistically. Montgomery recorded career-lows in carries and rushing yards, along with his fewest touchdowns since arriving in Detroit—largely due to the shifting offensive focus.
Originally selected in the third round of the 2019 NFL Draft by the Chicago Bears, Montgomery spent four seasons in Chicago before signing with Detroit. With the Bears, he compiled:
3,609 rushing yards
26 rushing touchdowns
155 receptions
1,240 receiving yards
Jahmyr Gibbs’ Breakout Alters Lions’ Backfield
A major factor in Montgomery’s reduced role was the continued rise of Jahmyr Gibbs, who has become one of the NFL’s most dangerous dual-threat players.
Drafted in the first round in 2023 out of Alabama, Gibbs is used all over the field—lined up in the backfield, the slot, and in motion to create mismatches. His production has steadily increased each season:
2023 (rookie season): 1,261 total yards, 11 TDs
2024: 1,412 rushing yards, 16 rushing TDs, 52 receptions, 4 receiving TDs
2025: 1,223 rushing yards, 13 rushing TDs, 77 receptions, 5 receiving TDs
Despite the Lions offense taking a step back overall in 2025, Gibbs assumed a larger workload and remained the focal point of the attack—often at Montgomery’s expense.
What’s Next for the Lions?
With Gibbs firmly established as the franchise’s lead back and offensive weapon, Detroit now faces a pivotal roster decision. Trading Montgomery could free up salary cap space and allow him to thrive in a system better suited to his power-running style.
For now, Holmes’ comments signal openness rather than inevitability—but the David Montgomery trade rumors are no longer speculation alone.
