The Detroit Lions' offense received a shake-up early in the offseason when running back David Montgomery was traded to the Houston Texans.
It is a move that appeared to work against Detroit, given that Montgomery is a proven contributor who has earned a reputation as one of the NFL's best RB2s. Replacing someone with 2,506 rushing yards and 33 touchdowns on 562 carries in the last three seasons isn't easy.
Of course, Montgomery's usage (or lack thereof) was a consistent theme throughout the 2025 season, leaving Lions fans to debate if he was being used correctly and whether he'd seek a bigger role in the offseason.
All of a sudden, that distraction has been removed, along with a new sense of focus on putting the ball into the hands of Jahmyr Gibbs as much as possible. Add in the fact that free-agent signing Isiah Pacheco has already been added as a reliable backup, and everything is looking up for the Lions' offense.
David Montgomery's Departure Isn't the End of the World for Lions
Taking Montgomery away is one less weapon, but the Lions have already found an apt replacement in Pacheco, who won't create the distraction or debate that Montgomery did in the back's final season with Detroit.
With a fresh start, Pacheco could find a way to replace Montgomery's production. The new Lion is coming off one of his most disappointing seasons; however, it was only a few years ago that he tallied 800-plus yards in back-to-back seasons.
Now, Gibbs can be the focal point while Pacheco takes on Montgomery's old role. There is also the fact that the trade netted the Lions a fourth-round selection in the 2026 offseason and an offensive lineman in Juice Scruggs, who could play a vital role on the offensive line.
The offense not only has a path to being just as lethal, but you're taking away what was a distraction to the offense. In fairness, it must be noted that this was due to Montgomery being far too good in a reserve role and demanding carries even when it is beyond clear that Gibbs is the more gifted of the two players.
That's without bringing up the financial benefit. According to OverTheCap, Montgomery will begin his Texans career with a cap hit of $6 million, whereas Pacheco's figure sits at a more palatable $1.8 million, giving the Lions some added flexibility for offseason spending.
As disappointing as some Lions fans might be to see him in another jersey, trading Montgomery was the right move. It will allow Detroit to begin the 2026 season with one fewer distraction while helping the team's cap situation, representing the type of multi-win scenario needed to get back on track.