The Detroit Lions could find themselves in need of another running back alongside Jahmyr Gibbs, given the increasing possibility that David Montgomery is on his way out the door this offseason. While the veteran is still under contract, a lesser role in 2025 could push the two sides to divorce. With this in mind, there is one name to keep an eye on who could fill Montgomery's role: veteran James Connor. While currently under contract, the rusher has been pointed to by Rotoworld Football as a clear cap-saving cut.
It isn't a huge surprise as Arizona enters a bit of a reset under a new coaching staff, opening the door for a reunion. New Detroit offensive coordinator Drew Petzing worked with Connor during the duo's time together with the Cardinals. Connor was obviously the starting back while Petzing was the OC, often showing great trust in his veteran back and making it clear the two had respect for one another.
With this in mind, Petzing's familiarity and possible need should have Connor firmly on Detroit's radar if he is ultimately released. The veteran is a punishing back with the ideal level of physicality to replace Montgomery if the Lions are forced to. Connor had back-to-back 1,000-yard rushing seasons before injuries derailed his 2025 numbers, setting up a chance for a team to steal a potential bargain.
Lions Could Potentially Replace Montgomery with James Connor in 2026 Offseason
It is easy to imagine Connor turning back the clock and once again being a physical presence at running back to help take pressure off Jared Goff. Already having the trust of Detroit's new offensive coordinator unquestionably suggests the fit will be explored if the playmaker is released.
The only roadblock to this is if Montgomery buys into the new OC and believes he can carry a larger load in the 2026 season. Detroit fans cannot blame the veteran for his frustrations after going from a featured weapon to an inconsistently used secondary option throughout the 2025 season. Montgomery would be given a chance to start if not sitting behind Gibbs, and that could lead the playmaker to seek a trade elsewhere.
Connor would then become Detroit's perfect answer, steadying an incredibly talented roster of playmakers. One that is expected to bounce back and put up better numbers after coaching changes were made to help solve what was an up-and-down 2025 attack. For Connor, it would be a chance to reunite with a familiar face and play a meaningful role on an NFC contender with Super Bowl aspirations. No, question a potential signing if Connor was released appears to be very much on the table if Montgomery exits.