The Detroit Lions have every reason to believe the franchise has the best rushing duo in the league. David Montgomery and Jahmyr Gibbs perfectly balance each other and allow Jared Goff and the rest of the Detroit offense to thrive. It is a small piece of why there is every reason to believe this group is still a Super Bowl contender. If health can fall their way, it is going to be the Philadelphia Eagles and Lions vying for the conference. With this in mind, the team should search for every possible upgrade, and this could include trading a familiar face.
Gibbs and Montgomery give Detroit such incredible stability that backup Craig Reynolds isn't properly utilized. With this in mind, the team could attempt to solve another depth concern by trading Reynolds. There is no urgency in this, but it is an option the team should explore both to give Reynolds a deserved chance and to search for possible upgrades.
The Lions simply have little reason to continue to employ the talented option when there is limited trade value the franchise can take advantage of. Reynolds has averaged more than 4.0 yards per carry in a limited capacity.
The Lions Should Consider Trading Craig Reynolds
What would the right offense pay for the improved depth? It is a question Detroit should explore in the final weeks of the summer. If there isn't a deal that improves the roster, no harm is done. If you can find the right deal, it is the right decision for both sides. Reynolds has spent four seasons in an extremely limited capacity. The few opportunities the back has been given were taken full advantage of, putting together a resume that has built a level of value.
Reynolds isn't going to inspire a bidding war, but would net a draft pick or depth at another position. It is a move the Lions should consider as the franchise continues to seek its first Super Bowl title. Even the smallest details matter if you're going to go toe-to-toe with the Kansas City Chiefs or whichever behemoth makes it out of the AFC. This is the path the Philadelphia Eagles walked last season, laying a clear blueprint.
One the Lions must follow by seeking trades and every possible upgrade. If Reynolds doesn't have the expected value on the market, keep the depth and move on. Regardless, the Lions offense is in an incredible position and appears poised to be among the elite contenders yet again.