Lions Weigh David Montgomery’s Future as $18 Million Trade-or-Cut Talk Builds

Overview

• General manager Brad Holmes said Detroit will hold in-depth discussions on what situation best utilizes Montgomery’s skill set, leaving his 2026 status open.
• Analysts highlight a reduced 2025 workload for Montgomery, with snaps dropping to 37% and touches to 182 as Gibbs took a larger share.
• Reporting frames Montgomery as a candidate for a trade before a possible release given the roughly $18 million remaining on his deal.
• Recent pieces identify potential suitors if he becomes available, with Seattle, Denver and Houston mentioned by The Sporting News and Dallas noted by Yahoo Sports.
• Despite the uncertainty, Montgomery remains productive at 28 years old, posting 4.5 yards per carry in 2025 and 59 career rushing touchdowns, and he remains on Detroit’s roster with no move finalized.