Lions' 59-TD weapon tipped for career change in 2026

The Detroit Lions' offense has been one of the best in football over the past couple of seasons, with running back duo Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery a big reason why.

With Gibbs' electric speed, coupled with Montgomery's brutal running style, the pair have complemented each other well.

But we have seen Gibbs' usage increase, and David's go down, and now we are approaching a fork in the road moment for the veteran. Does he stay as a backup or look for a chance to become a starter elsewhere?

For ESPN's Aaron Schatz, Montgomery's career might be better off with a fresh start.

"It felt as if the Lions' "Sonic" and "Knuckles" backfield became more of the Sonic (aka Jahmyr Gibbs, 23) show as the 2025 season went along, although Knuckles (aka Montgomery) still played plenty of snaps,” Schatz wrote. “It also might be better for his career to take a lead-back role with a different team.”

More: ESPN urges change of scenery for Bills' Keon Coleman

Montgomery would have suitors

Yes, he's 28 years old, but David has still been productive, even as second-fiddle to Gibbs.

In his last two seasons, Montgomery has posted over 700 rushing yards and a combined 20 TDs, which is nothing to turn your nose up at.

But David didn't start once in 2025, after starting 14 games in 2024, so there is a shift toward the younger Gibbs, and rightly so.

Montgomery has been a great soldier for the Lions, but now might be the time to shake hands and move on to the next phase of his career. Because he's still got enough juice to be a starting back in the NFL, it just can't be with the Lions.

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