The Detroit Lions have some work they need to do to improve for the 2026 season. Although they went 9-8, they missed the playoffs for the first time in two years. They let go of offensive coordinator John Morton, and it appears there will be more moves coming to that side of the ball.
General manager Brad Holmes spoke to the media on Thursday and discussed the underwhelming season of running back David Montgomery after his lack of touches. Holmes took things a step further and said they will have conversations on what's best for his career going forward, whether that's in the Motor City or not.
"He deserves to be in a situation where his skillset can be utilized," Holmes said, via Eric Woodyard of ESPN.com.
This may not be what fans want to hear, but based on how the season went for him, the chapter with the Lions may be over.
David Montgomery’s Time with Lions May Be Coming to an End
After being a consistent contributor in the Lions' backfield between 2023 and 2024, his usage took a serious hit in 2025. Montgomery posted career lows in carries (158) and rushing yards (716).
From Week 11 to Week 18, he saw fewer than 10 carries in seven games. During that same stretch, he didn't play more than 42 percent of the offensive snaps.
The season didn't go as planned, and Montgomery hinted at wanting a change of scenery as well. He liked a comment on Instagram where someone suggested that he should request a trade.
What the Lions decide to do with the Iowa State product will be interesting. He's signed through the 2027 season after agreeing to a two-year, $18.25 million extension in Oct. 2024. If Detroit decided to cut him with a post-June 1 designation, they would save $6 million in 2026 and another $9 million for the 2027 campaign.
The extra money would be nice, but Montgomery is still a talented back who will generate interest on the trade block. Several teams would be eager to send the Lions an early Day 3 draft pick to take him off their hands.
The Lions would likely want to send him over to the AFC, which would make the Kansas City Chiefs, Houston Texans, Pittsburgh Steelers, and Denver Broncos some enticing options. Considering that these teams should be competing for a postseason spot next season, adding Montgomery could be ideal for them.
During his time with the Lions, he formed a dynamic duo called "Sonic and Knuckles" with Jahmyr Gibbs. The 28-year-old is a downhill runner who thrives inside the tackles. That skillset is always wanted in the NFL, and based on Holmes' comments, there is a real chance he won't be around next season.
Gibbs is the future in the Lions' backfield, and the 2025 season made it obvious they will lean on him. And that opened up the possibility that Montgomery will be gone.