The Detroit Lions are officially out of the playoff race, and running back David Montgomery might be entering his final game with the team. A third-round pick in the 2019 NFL Draft, the Iowa State product began his career with the Chicago Bears before forming an elite one-two punch in Detroit with first-round pick Jahmyr Gibbs. In 2023 and 2024, the two combined to be one of the league’s most dangerous duos.
However, 2025 has been a different story. While Gibbs remains elite, David Montgomery has become a smaller and smaller part of the Lions offense. With one game left to play, the seven-year veteran is on pace for career lows in rushing yards and attempts. Recently, Montgomery liked an Instagram comment saying he should request a trade at the end of the season, which suggests the running back isn’t happy with his new role.
David Montgomery liked this Instagram reply… pic.twitter.com/k66DFcbTJp
— 𝔗𝔥𝔢 𝔇𝔢𝔱𝔯𝔬𝔦𝔱 𝔗𝔦𝔪𝔢𝔰 📰 (@the_det_times) December 23, 2025
David Montgomery Could Request Offseason Trade From Lions; Several Suitors Should Emerge
David Montgomery probably won’t earn a massive return in a trade, but the longtime starter is still capable of being a strong part of a committee approach. Looking around the league, there are a few teams that could be interested in Montgomery’s services.
Main Photo: Jeffrey Becker – Imagn Images
3. Cincinnati Bengals
The Cincinnati Bengals have a lot of work to do as they enter the offseason, but any team with Joe Burrow, Ja’Marr Chase, and Tee Higgins will have a chance to compete. Chase Brown is a good starting running back, but the former fifth-round pick could use a backup who can handle a higher share of the work.
David Montgomery is perfect for this role, as his jack of all trades, master of none skillset makes him an ideal fit for the Bengals. Montgomery can play on passing and rushing downs, and seeing as he shouldn’t cost more than a Day 3 pick, he won’t prevent Cincinnati from using most of their offseason resources on the offensive line and defense.
2. Los Angeles Chargers
First-round pick Omarion Hampton looks like the real deal, but the 2025 season proved to the Chargers just how important running back depth can be. While Kimani Vidal did a remarkable job filling in for the injured Hampton and veteran Najee Harris, a run-obsessed team like the Chargers would probably prefer to have a veteran backup.
If the Lions are willing to trade David Montgomery, the veteran could thrive in Los Angeles. The Chargers should have a great offensive line when everyone is healthy next year, and Montgomery should find success in Greg Roman’s scheme.
1. New Orleans Saints
Alvin Kamara is one of the best running backs of his generation, but the former third-round pick is starting to slow down. The 2025 season has easily been the worst of his professional career, and none of the younger players on the roster have established themselves as the heir apparent to his throne. Former third-round pick Kendre Miller cannot stay healthy and sixth-round pick Devin Neal hasn’t impressed.
David Montgomery is not a long-term fix to the position, but he can be an adequate short-term starter and mentor to whoever the team drafts in 2026. New Orleans has looked competitive with rookie Tyler Shough under center, and they could turn it around fast if he makes the Year 2 leap. If nothing else, Montgomery will ensure the team has a stable option in the backfield next year.
