The 3 options the Lions have with David Montgomery
The discussion around David Montgomery’s reduced role has snowballed into something far bigger than reality. What’s being overlooked is the simplest explanation: the Detroit Lions haven’t been playing with the comfortable leads they’re used to, forcing natural adjustments in how they call their run game. That shift has fueled speculation, but it doesn’t signal panic or a looming breakup.
Looking ahead, there are really only three realistic directions the Lions can take with Montgomery.
The first option is a trade. While it’s not impossible, the return would likely be limited. Running backs rarely fetch strong draft compensation, and Montgomery’s age and contract further lower his market value. At best, Detroit would probably be looking at a late-round pick. From a financial standpoint, a trade wouldn’t dramatically improve the cap situation either. The Lions would save a modest amount in the short term, though it would help them avoid a larger cap hit in a future season. A deal would also push Detroit to rely more on younger backs like Sione Vaki or Jacob Saylors, players the team would eventually like to evaluate more closely.
The second option is cutting Montgomery, which is highly unlikely. The cap savings simply aren’t significant enough to justify releasing a player who has been productive and reliable, especially when a trade could at least return an asset. While this route would again open more opportunities for Vaki and Saylors, it offers no real advantage over trading him and makes little sense from a roster-management perspective.
The third option — and the most logical — is staying put. Montgomery is still capable of contributing at a high level, fits the offense, and doesn’t carry an unreasonable financial burden. Much of the concern surrounding his usage has been amplified by overreaction rather than on-field decline or organizational dissatisfaction.
The Lions can keep Montgomery while continuing to develop their younger backs. Giving Vaki and Saylors more opportunities doesn’t require moving on from a proven veteran. There’s no major cap relief to gain and no substantial return waiting in a trade.
In reality, there’s little incentive for Detroit to make a drastic move. The most sensible outcome is continuity — keeping Montgomery in the mix while gradually expanding the roles of younger players. Expect the Lions’ backfield to remain intact moving forward, with familiar pieces still sharing the workload in 2026.
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