The Detroit Lions missed the playoffs for the first time since the 2022 season, and this disappointing campaign could usher in an offseason David Montgomery trade. Originally making a name for himself with the Chicago Bears, the former third-round pick joined the Lions in 2023 and formed one of the league’s best one-two punches with Jahmyr Gibbs .
While the two saw similar workloads in 2023 and 2024, Montgomery became a much smaller piece of the puzzle in 2025. Appearing in all 17 games without making a start, the veteran finished the season with just 716 yards and eight touchdowns while adding 24 receptions for 192 yards and no scores in the passing game.
Lions GM Hints At David Montgomery Trade
With Gibbs firmly entrenched atop the depth chart and David Montgomery approaching his 30’s, General Manager Brad Holmes suggested the team could trade the running back in the offseason. Now, it’s important to note that a deal cannot go through before the start of the 2026 league year in March, but the fact that they’re already having these conversations does not bode well for his future.
“Those are discussions that we’re going to have to have a lot more in-depth in terms of what is the best plan for him going forward,” Holmes said . “Is it somewhere else or whatever the case be.”
David Montgomery is old for a running back and probably won’t fetch the largest return, but any of the following teams could trade a late-round pick for the veteran’s services.
3. Kansas City Chiefs
The Kansas City Chiefs haven’t had a proper starting running back since Kareem Hunt’s first tenure with the team. While Isiah Pacheco wasn’t an active liability , he was never anything special and is a below-average starter. Seeing as he’s set to reach free agency and lost opportunities in the past few years, it’s safe to assume he won’t return in 2026.
David Montgomery isn’t a superstar at this stage in his career, but he could be the ideal trade candidate for the Chiefs. The veteran can make plays as a runner and receiver, which is necessary for Andy Reid’s offense. Additionally, the team may want to put more of an emphasis on the running game as star quarterback Patrick Mahomes works his way back from an ACL injury.
2. Houston Texans
Fourth-round rookie Woody Marks has done a solid job as the leader of Houston’s backfield, but that shouldn’t stop the team from bringing in some talent in the upcoming offseason. Nobody knows what the future holds for the injured Joe Mixon, and former star Nick Chubb is well past his prime.
The Houston Texans are in the midst of their championship window. The team has the best defense in football, great receiving weapons, and an up-and-coming quarterback in C.J. Stroud . While the offensive line could use some work, Houston has the roster to win it all, and adding Montgomery to the mix will cover up one of the roster’s biggest weaknesses.
1. Dallas Cowboys
There was a time when the Dallas Cowboys were the biggest spenders at the running back position. However, those days are long gone, as owner and General Manager Jerry Jones seems comfortable essentially streaming the position. Whether it’s Rico Dowdle or Javonte Williams, the Cowboys have squeezed production out of the cheapest option available, and David Montgomery could be next on that list.
With Williams likely leaving for a larger payday, the Cowboys could trade a late-round pick to the Lions for David Montgomery and his affordable contract. Montgomery isn’t the player he once was, but he should find success in this offense, playing behind a strong offensive line.
