The 28-year-old remains under contract and is set to earn $6 million in 2026, making him an affordable option for teams looking for an experienced power runner.
Why David Montgomery Wants Out
Montgomery’s role in the Lions’ offense declined during the 2025 season. With Jahmyr Gibbs emerging as the primary playmaker, Montgomery saw fewer carries and less overall involvement.
During several stretches late in the season, he failed to reach double-digit rushing attempts. In total, he finished with career-low usage numbers, including:
| Category | 2025 Stats |
|---|---|
| Carries | 158 |
| Rushing Yards | 716 |
| Rushing TDs | 8 |
| Scrimmage Yards | 908 |
For a competitive player who has been a lead back for most of his career, the reduced workload played a major role in his decision to explore opportunities elsewhere.
Lions’ Trade Expectation
Detroit is not expected to demand a high return. The franchise is reportedly looking for a reasonable Day 3 draft pick, likely a fifth-round selection, in the 2026 NFL Draft.
From a financial perspective, Montgomery’s contract is manageable, and his age still places him in his productive years. However, the Lions must also manage salary cap space as they prepare to extend key players and build around their younger core.
Team leadership has indicated they value Montgomery but also understand his desire for a larger role.
Also Read: Jeff Caldwell Turns Heads with Historic Performance at 2026 NFL Combine
Potential Trade Fits Emerging
Several teams could show interest depending on their offseason needs. Seattle has been mentioned as a logical destination if their running back situation changes. Other teams searching for a reliable early-down back could also enter the picture as the offseason progresses.
Montgomery brings a physical running style, strong pass protection, and goal-line efficiency, making him a valuable addition for playoff contenders.
Career Snapshot: Proven Production
Despite a quieter 2025 season, Montgomery’s overall career remains strong.
| Career Category | Total |
|---|---|
| Rushing Yards | 6,115 |
| Rushing TDs | 59 |
| Receiving Yards | 1,890 |
| Games Played | 105 |
The former Iowa State standout also has two 1,000-yard rushing seasons and has been a consistent red-zone threat throughout his career.
Also See: Taylen Green breaks QB records at 2026 NFL Combine with historic athletic performance
What This Means for Detroit
The Lions appear ready to fully center their offense around Jahmyr Gibbs moving forward. If a trade materializes, it would mark the end of the Montgomery-Gibbs backfield partnership and signal a clear shift toward a speed-focused offensive identity.
For Montgomery, a move could provide the opportunity he is seeking — a larger role and a chance to compete as a primary back again.
With the NFL Draft approaching and teams evaluating roster needs, this situation is expected to develop quickly in the coming weeks.
Detroit Lions running back David Montgomery could be on the move after reports confirmed that the veteran back has asked for a trade. The situation has developed during the 2026 NFL offseason, with Detroit reportedly willing to listen to offers as the team reshapes its offensive plans.
The 28-year-old remains under contract and is set to earn $6 million in 2026, making him an affordable option for teams looking for an experienced power runner.
Why David Montgomery Wants Out
Montgomery’s role in the Lions’ offense declined during the 2025 season. With Jahmyr Gibbs emerging as the primary playmaker, Montgomery saw fewer carries and less overall involvement.
During several stretches late in the season, he failed to reach double-digit rushing attempts. In total, he finished with career-low usage numbers, including:
| Category | 2025 Stats |
|---|---|
| Carries | 158 |
| Rushing Yards | 716 |
| Rushing TDs | 8 |
| Scrimmage Yards | 908 |
For a competitive player who has been a lead back for most of his career, the reduced workload played a major role in his decision to explore opportunities elsewhere.
Lions’ Trade Expectation
Detroit is not expected to demand a high return. The franchise is reportedly looking for a reasonable Day 3 draft pick, likely a fifth-round selection, in the 2026 NFL Draft.
From a financial perspective, Montgomery’s contract is manageable, and his age still places him in his productive years. However, the Lions must also manage salary cap space as they prepare to extend key players and build around their younger core.
Team leadership has indicated they value Montgomery but also understand his desire for a larger role.
Potential Trade Fits Emerging
Several teams could show interest depending on their offseason needs. Seattle has been mentioned as a logical destination if their running back situation changes. Other teams searching for a reliable early-down back could also enter the picture as the offseason progresses.
Montgomery brings a physical running style, strong pass protection, and goal-line efficiency, making him a valuable addition for playoff contenders.
Career Snapshot: Proven Production
Despite a quieter 2025 season, Montgomery’s overall career remains strong.
| Career Category | Total |
|---|---|
| Rushing Yards | 6,115 |
| Rushing TDs | 59 |
| Receiving Yards | 1,890 |
| Games Played | 105 |
The former Iowa State standout also has two 1,000-yard rushing seasons and has been a consistent red-zone threat throughout his career.
The Lions appear ready to fully center their offense around Jahmyr Gibbs moving forward. If a trade materializes, it would mark the end of the Montgomery-Gibbs backfield partnership and signal a clear shift toward a speed-focused offensive identity.
For Montgomery, a move could provide the opportunity he is seeking — a larger role and a chance to compete as a primary back again.
With the NFL Draft approaching and teams evaluating roster needs, this situation is expected to develop quickly in the coming weeks.
