Following the trade that sent Montgomery to the Houston Texans, Gibbs has become the undisputed RB1. However, “Sonic” may be eyeing a more versatile role than a traditional lead back.

Dan Campbell hinted during the NFL owners’ meetings that Gibbs’ unique talents could be utilized all over the field. He revealed that the team is even considering lining the young star up at wide receiver to maximize his explosive playmaking ability.

“Gibbs, we didn’t view Gibbs as a runner, he was a weapon,” Campbell said. “We felt like Gibbs, this guy is gonna explode. Yes, he’s a runner, he can run all schemes, he can run inside, outside, the perimeters, but he also can be lethal out of the backfield, and we’re not even there yet. We feel like this guy can play some receiver. He’s dynamic and he’s a difference-maker. They don’t come around often.”

A new chapter for the Lions’ offense

There is no doubt that Dan Campbell has revitalized the Lions, but 2025 proved to be a challenging season. Following the exit of Ben Johnson last year, the offense lost the creative spark that had previously made the unit one of the league’s most feared.

After a disappointing stint under John Morton, the Lions moved on and named Drew Petzing as the new offensive coordinator. There are high hopes for Petzing, especially given the wealth of talent at his disposal and his history of creative personnel grouping.

With Campbell confirming that Gibbs could feature prominently as a receiver, it is clear that Petzing is exploring new schematic variations to jumpstart the offense. However, matching the efficiency and production seen under Ben Johnson’s guidance remains a tall order.

A new RB duo in Detroit

Following the Montgomery trade, the Lions moved quickly to bolster their backfield by signing free agent Isiah Pacheco to a one-year, $1.81 million deal. Pacheco is slated to serve as the RB2, with the hope that he can recapture the high-energy form he displayed during his championship years with the Kansas City Chiefs.

While Pacheco is regarded as a physical, downhill runner, his recent injury history has raised some concerns among the fanbase. However, if he can remain healthy, the Lions may once again possess one of the most intimidating backfield duos in the NFL.

Upon his arrival, David Montgomery made a bold promise to the Texans regarding his future performance. However, he hasn’t forgotten his past, especially his experience playing under Dan Campbell.

The running back spoke about his move to Houston, which took him by surprise. Nevertheless, he accepted the trade gladly, noting that Dan Campbell continually praised Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans.

“When I was in Detroit, Coach Campbell would talk about Coach Ryans all the time,” Montgomery said in a video uploaded by the Texans. “When we had joint practices or he was talking about another coach, he always would talk about Coach Ryans. So now, to be under him and see, and be a part of it now, I’m super excited. I couldn’t think of a more ideal place to be.”

The Texans are building something solid

Last season, Houston managed to secure a Wild Card spot despite the various struggles the team faced throughout the year. They even advanced to the Divisional Round, where they eventually lost to the New England Patriots.

Despite falling short of a title, their performance during the 2025 NFL season surprised many, especially considering the lack of a consistent rushing attack. With Montgomery now in the backfield, that dynamic is set to change significantly.

David Montgomery is slated to become the RB1, with Joe Mixon and Nick Chubb no longer with the club. Woody Marks, who had a solid rookie season while Mixon and Chubb were unavailable, will serve as his backup.

Is Stefon Diggs returning to the Texans?

Following his release from the Patriots, fans are wondering whether Stefon Diggs might return to the Texans. He is currently a free agent, and while many clubs have already signed other wide receivers, Diggs remains on the market.

While Nico Collins is a standout receiver, the recent departure of Christian Kirk to the San Francisco 49ers has raised questions about whether the club should pursue Diggs to build a stronger receiving corps for C.J. Stroud.

The Lions had been able to have one of the strongest RB duos in the league with Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery. The two complemented each other perfectly as “Sonic and Knuckles,” yet the NFC North franchise moved on from Montgomery in a move that surprised many.

Now that he is part of the Texans, the 28-year-old running back has addressed the trade. Montgomery was clear that he will give it all to his new team, believing that his prime is not gone—a slight jab at the Lions after trading him away.

“I honestly feel like I’m in my prime,” David Montgomery said, via The Houston Chronicle. “Am I able to handle the work load? Yes, because I work hard in the offseason to be able to do something like that.”

David Montgomery returns to being the RB1 in Houston

In 2023, just when David Montgomery joined the Detroit Lions, the club drafted Jahmyr Gibbs at 12th overall. However, the veteran maintained his position as RB1 for the majority of their time together, even as Gibbs was regarded as the clear future of the position. Montgomery’s ability to handle the “heavy lifting” allowed Gibbs to develop, but the dynamic eventually shifted as the younger back took on a larger share of the touches.

A year later, Montgomery and Gibbs shared more snaps, and fans didn’t have it clear who was the RB1. However, in the 2025 NFL season everything changed and Gibbs was finally regarded as the starter, which is why the exit of Montgomery this offseason makes more sense. Despite playing in all 17 games last year, Montgomery saw his snap count drop to a career-low 37%, leading to reported frustration that paved the way for this week’s blockbuster trade.

Now as part of the Texans, Montgomery is set to become the RB1 once again. The club moved on from Joe Mixon and Nick Chubb, and the former Lions player is now the first option in the depth chart, yet he faces competition again for the starter role.

In 2025, the Texans drafted Woody Marks. He had a solid rookie campaign with 912 all-purpose yards and proved he could handle a heavy workload in the playoffs. He was the reason why the club didn’t stick to either Mixon or Chubb, but they still want him to develop better and that’s why they included Montgomery this offseason. The team believes the veteran can serve as a bridge while Marks continues to refine his game.

David Montgomery comes off a career-low mark of 716 yards in 158 carries. Nevertheless, the Texans believe he is a strong option to guide Marks, just as he did with Gibbs in the Lions, to make him an elite running back in the upcoming years.

On Monday, NFL Media revealed that the Texans and Lions agreed to terms on a deal sending Montgomery to Houston. The AFC South franchise now boasts significant depth at running back, but changes to the depth chart could be imminent.

According to Mike Florio of NBC, the Texans plan to make David Montgomery their RB1, with Woody Marks serving as his primary backup. Despite Joe Mixon still being under contract, reports suggest Houston could release him soon, while Nick Chubb is not expected to return next season.

Joe Mixon’s health issues continue

Last year, Joe Mixon was sidelined with a foot injury. Initial reports indicated he would eventually return, but that never materialized, and he ended up missing the entire 2025 NFL season.

Mixon’s situation remains puzzling. Many analysts consider the details surrounding his injury and prolonged absence a mystery, as neither the Texans nor the player have fully clarified the extent of the issue.

As of now, Mixon is not expected to draw significant interest in free agency. Teams are typically hesitant to invest in a player with uncertain health, especially one coming off a full season away from the field.

What will happen with Nick Chubb?

The Texans acquired Nick Chubb last year following Mixon’s injury. He was coming off a serious knee injury of his own, which raised questions about his durability and effectiveness.

Chubb finished the season with 506 rushing yards in 15 games. With Montgomery now in the picture and Chubb set to become a free agent, Houston is not expected to bring him back for the 2026 campaign.

According to Ian Rapoport of NFL Network, the Texans have agreed to send offensive lineman Tytus Howard to the Browns. Cleveland will give them a fifth-round pick in return. Hence, whether it’s Shedeur Sanders or the favorite to actually land the QB1 job in Cleveland, the Browns added a new pass-protector.

The Browns have had many names on the offensive line change. Howard will not play the final year of his current contract. Rapoport also reported that the Browns will extend him on a three-year, $63 million deal. Hence, the Browns are locking him up for years to come.

Tytus Howard is a versatile player

The Browns landed a versatile lineman that can play as a right tackle, left tackle, and a left guard. Hence, the Browns are getting a guy that has started all 93 games he’s played in. A reliable, versatile lineman who is in the middle of his prime is now going to Cleveland.

However, that means David Montgomery has one less protector now that he is going to Houston. Howard has played seven years, all for Houston. However, for Houston, the reason would be that while Howard is a great pass protector, his run blocking is the weaker aspect to his game.

Texans might make moves for other linemen

The fact is that they have strengthen their running game, but Montgomery is a guy who runs through the line, not on the edges. That’s why they need good run blockers, and that’s the focus they are likely taking during the free agency period.

“Detroit has never just been a location to me — it’s been a community. And you all have been more than supporters or a team. You’ve been steady hands, loud cheers, honest feedback, and quiet strength when I needed it most,” Montgomery wrote on his personal Instagram account.

During his three seasons in Detroit, Montgomery accounted for a total of 33 touchdowns. In his final year with the team, he appeared in all 17 games. “You believed in me when things were uncertain. You stood beside me through challenges. You showed up — consistently, fiercely, unapologetically,” the former Lions running back wrote.

Montgomery leaves his mark in Detroit

As Montgomery begins a new chapter with the Texans, his impact in Detroit will not be forgotten. He ranks 14th in franchise history in career rushing yards with 2,506 and sits fifth in rushing touchdowns with 33.

“There is something special about the people here. The resilience. The loyalty. The way you don’t just support someone — you ride with them. I have felt that from each of you, and I will never take that lightly,” Montgomery added.

The 2023 season was Montgomery’s best in Detroit and the second-best of his career in terms of rushing yards. His 13 rushing touchdowns that year marked a career high. He followed that up with 12 touchdowns in 2024, the second-highest total of his career in that category.

Popularly known as Sonic and Knuckles, this formidable running back duo is parting ways ahead of what’s to come. On his Instagram account, Gibbs posted a story featuring the two characters along with a broken heart emoji, clearly expressing his recent emotions.

Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery were undoubtedly two of the players making the most noise, not only in their division but across the National Football Conference.

Having played together for three seasons, they were the first pair of running back teammates in NFL history with at least 10 rushing touchdowns each in consecutive seasons.

Texans add a key weapon to their offense

The Texans have provided C.J. Stroud with a vital new weapon by acquiring Montgomery. The RB joins the backfield following a solid 2025 campaign where he showcased his efficiency and nose for the end zone, recording 158 carries for 716 yards and 8 touchdowns.

With a strong 4.5-yard average, his physical running style is expected to balance the Texans’ explosive passing attack and take significant pressure off their young franchise quarterback.

The Texans RB depth chart will now feature David Montgomery, followed by second-year player Woody Marks, and a returning Joe Mixon. Jawhar Jordan also features on the depth chart. As for Nick Chubb and Dare Ogunbowale, both are unrestricted free agents for the 2026 NFL season, leaving the team. Also, it seems like Mixon and the Texans will part ways before the start of free agency.

As for the Lions, this move leaves Jahmyr Gibbs as the absolute workhorse of the team. Following Gibbs, Jacob Saylors is also under contract, though he was primarily used as a kickoff returner. Third-year RB Sione Vaki is also on the depth chart as well as Kye Robichaux. However, Robichaux is currently on the Injured Reserve list.

Are the Lions receiving enough for Montgomery?

Per Rapoport, the Lions are getting “the Texans fourth rounder, OL Juice Scruggs, and a 7th rounder… So, fifth-round value. But a complex deal.” This means Houston really wanted to land the services of the unhappy Montgomery, who saw his usage decline massively last year despite still being productive.

However, the Lions are getting a potential starting-caliber offensive linemen, as Scruggs might solve some of the issues on that unit, given the retirements the Lions have suffered. A fourth and seventh round picks are what you can get for a 28-year-old running back. All in all, it’s quite a fair trade.

What does this mean for Montgomery?

For the Lions, the mission is clear: get Jahmyr Gibbs a new, very lucrative deal. But for Montgomery? Being 28 years old, many might see that as a declining age for a RB. However, Montgomery has less mileage than others, due to him being under Gibbs’ shadow. He is fresh and ready to go.

Two years ago, the Texans traded for Joe Mixon, a power back. Last year, they brought Nick Chubb. Now, it’s David Montgomery. The Texans like rough-and-tough running backs and Montgomery, who is nicknamed ‘Knuckles‘, fits perfectly. Mixon was great until injuries happened, Chubb had somewhat of a resurgence year. However, Montgomery comes in his prime, and should become the RB1 of the team without much hesitation.

“Of course, I want David back,” Gibbs said to Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press. “The whole team wants him to stay, but ultimately, it’s up to him.” Gibbs emphasized the uncertainty surrounding Montgomery’s future, yet expressed the collective desire for his return in the upcoming season.

Gibbs also affirmed his unwavering support for Montgomery’s career decisions, noting their strong camaraderie within the team. “He’s going to do what’s best for him and his family, and whatever he decides, I’ll support him 100%. But, of course, we want him back,“ Gibbs added.

Montgomery-Gibbs impact on the Lions last season

Beyond their off-field friendship, Montgomery and Gibbs contributed significantly to the Lions on the field. Their performances throughout the regular season have established a statistical legacy that the Lions are eager to maintain.

Together, they have amassed 6,086 rushing yards, 2,099 receiving yards, and 82 total touchdowns as the NFL’s top running back duo. These numbers underscore not only their value to Detroit but also their appeal to other teams in the league.

Montgomery’s potential suitors

Amidst swirling rumors regarding Montgomery’s future, several teams have been linked to the talented running back. The Dallas Cowboys, Denver Broncos, and Pittsburgh Steelers have been named as potential landing spots for Montgomery as he considers his options for the next season.

Running back David Montgomery told NBC Sports that the new OC, Drew Petzing, “knows exactly what needs to happen” for the Lions to go back to a Super Bowl contender. Montgomery, specifically, wants to have a bounceback year after being neglected last year in the snap share.

Montgomery’s future is up in the air. General manager Brad Holmes said the Lions will take a look at the RB future this offseason. In his peak, Montgomery is one of the best allies Jared Goff has on offense.

Montgomery is not the only player endorsing Petzing

Amon-Ra St. Brown is one of the best wideouts in the NFL and is fresh off a Pro Bowl season where he had 117 receptions for 1,401 yards and 11 touchdowns. Individually, St. Brown was once again a huge player for the Lions. However, he also spoke about the hiring of Petzing.

Amon-Ra said, “Do you think they’d [Lions] just hire a random dude?” implying Petzing is more than ready to make this Lions offense great again. The Lions are confident on Petzing’s abilities to improve the team. After the bad experience under John Morton, the team wants to be as explosive as they were with Ben Johnson back in the day.

The Lions must recover credibility

The Lions will be trying to regain all the momentum lost this 2025 NFL season. The team has also been depleted by injuries the last two years and that has minimized its Super Bowl window.

But also, this past season made the Lions look really beatable, something that didn’t happen before. The team ended 9-8 this season but at points, it didn’t seem as the polished, gritty, and tough team people expected.

According to the official NFL website, both players were listed as questionable for the game at US Bank Stadium. However, according to the latest report from Ian Rapoport on X, all indications are that both St. Brown and Montgomery are expected to play.

It’s undoubtedly a huge boost for Jared Goff to have both players on the field, especially since a win is the only result that matters to keep Lions’ hopes alive for a Wild Card spot.

What injuries are affecting St. Brown and Montgomery?

St. Brown is dealing with knee irritation that limited his practice participation throughout the week, while Montgomery was a late addition to the injury report due to an illness. Although both stars are technically game-time decisions, recent reports suggest they are likely to play through their respective issues to help the Lions in this crucial divisional clash.

The impact of both players on the offense

Amon-Ra St. Brown and David Montgomery have been the offensive engines for the Lions this season, consistently delivering elite production. St. Brown has established himself as a premier target with 98 receptions for 1,194 yards and 11 touchdowns, maintaining an impressive 12.2 average per catch. Meanwhile, Montgomery has been a force on the ground, racking up 649 yards and 8 touchdowns on 140 carries, averaging a solid 4.6 yards per attempt.

The playoff dream

With a current record of eight wins and seven losses, the Detroit Lions are still in the hunt for a playoff spot in the NFC North. Ahead of their matchup against the Vikings, the official NFL website lists their chances of securing a Wild Card at 6%, but a win could boost that to 9%. Is it enough? No. But the dream remains alive.