Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell is well aware that running back David Montgomery hasn’t been seeing the workload he’s accustomed to, and he’s actively considering ways to change that.
In the Lions’ loss to the Los Angeles Rams, both Montgomery and Jahmyr Gibbs reached halftime with identical usage: six rushing attempts each. Montgomery made the most of his opportunities, compiling 31 yards at a strong 5.2 yards per carry, while Gibbs managed 19 yards on the ground, averaging just 3.2 per attempt.
After the break, however, Montgomery was nearly absent from the game plan. His only second-half touch came on a one-yard scoring run via a direct snap. Gibbs, meanwhile, handled seven additional carries but added only 19 more yards, dropping his efficiency to 2.7 yards per rush.
Game flow played a role, as Detroit quickly fell behind by multiple scores and leaned more heavily on Gibbs. Still, the contest reflected a broader trend from the 2025 season. Compared to last year, Montgomery’s role has shrunk noticeably—he’s averaging 3.5 fewer carries, 10 fewer rushing yards, and just over one fewer reception per game. Additionally, while Montgomery often opened games in 2024, Gibbs has taken the first snap at running back in all 14 games this season.
Speaking Wednesday, Campbell addressed Montgomery’s diminished involvement, starting by commending the veteran’s attitude and professionalism.
“David’s a pro,” Campbell said. “He handles himself the right way and goes about his work. That’s not easy when you’re a really good player who wants to contribute and produce. But whenever we call on him, he’s ready.”
Campbell also acknowledged that the offense functions at a higher level when Montgomery is actively involved, noting that it’s something he regularly considers.
“I think about it a lot—how to keep everyone involved,” Campbell said. “When all of those guys are part of it, we’re simply better as an offense.”
Finding those opportunities hasn’t been straightforward. The Lions have experimented with more two-back formations, in part due to injuries at tight end, but Campbell hinted at other possibilities. Traditionally, Detroit has rotated backs by series, allowing one runner to lead an entire drive. However, Campbell suggested that approach may be adjusted.
“One idea is tagging some plays for David earlier in Jahmyr’s series,” Campbell explained. “That way he gets touches, stays involved, and gives Jah a breather.”
Whether those adjustments lead to increased work for Montgomery during Detroit’s final three games remains to be seen. What’s clear is that Campbell hasn’t forgotten about his veteran running back and continues to search for ways to better utilize him.
