Dan Campbell has long wanted the Detroit Lions’ offense to feature all of its playmakers, but with the way the season has developed, the distribution of touches has shifted in a predictable direction.
When John Morton stepped in as offensive coordinator to replace Ben Johnson, there was widespread expectation that Jahmyr Gibbs would take on a bigger offensive role. That prediction has proved accurate. Early in the year, as the offense tried to settle into Morton’s system, Campbell publicly mentioned that he wanted David Montgomery to see more involvement alongside Gibbs.
“I’d like to keep those two balanced,” Campbell said at the time. “I want to make sure David gets more opportunities.”
Morton continued calling plays for two additional games before Campbell assumed play-calling responsibilities himself in Week 10 against Washington. Since Campbell’s initial comments about boosting Montgomery’s workload, Gibbs has delivered one explosive performance after another—topping 120 scrimmage yards in five of seven games and surpassing 200 scrimmage yards twice.
Realistically, Gibbs has played his way into near-every-down usage. With tight end Sam LaPorta sidelined over the last four games, Gibbs has evolved into a go-to option in the passing game, hauling in 26 passes for 247 yards and a touchdown. He has already exceeded the 52 catches he recorded in each of his first two NFL seasons.
Campbell Recognizes the “Good Problem” He Faces
Some Detroit fans still express frustration over Montgomery’s reduced workload, especially considering his physical running style and ability to wear down defenses. During Campbell’s weekly appearance on 97.1 The Ticket’s Costa and Jansen with Heather, co-host Jim Costa mentioned that listeners often call in hoping for more carries for Montgomery.
Costa acknowledged the obvious—that trimming Gibbs’ touches at this point would be difficult—then asked Campbell directly:
“So… do you want more Monty?”
Campbell initially responded with some playful sarcasm, asking Costa what he preferred.
Costa answered, “I want more Gibbs.” Campbell replied, still joking, “Alright, we’ll do what you want. Who do you want out there?”
Costa held firm in favor of Gibbs and suggested an approximate 65/35 split between the two backs—essentially what Detroit is already doing in terms of playing time.
Campbell eventually shifted to a more thoughtful answer. He emphasized that the best way to increase touches for everyone is to sustain drives and remain efficient offensively. Still, he admitted that each back’s workload ultimately comes at the expense of the other.
“I love David Montgomery. I love Gibbs,” Campbell said. “Both guys are huge for us. I wish I could give them both a heavy load.”
Montgomery continues to have clear value—especially in games where Detroit is playing with a lead, allowing him to grind out tough yards. But his role has naturally adjusted as Gibbs’ responsibilities and production have grown, especially with the added receiving work during LaPorta’s absence.
Campbell’s earlier comments about needing to feed Montgomery more often have softened in light of Gibbs’ importance to the offense. At this stage, Gibbs’ dominance has made the backfield dynamics shift all on their own.
