Former Detroit Lions running back David Montgomery may now be a member of the Houston Texans, but his appreciation for Detroit remains as strong as ever.
The writing had been on the wall for a potential David Montgomery trade throughout the offseason. With Jahmyr Gibbs firmly established as the Lions’ featured running back, Montgomery’s role in Detroit’s offense was expected to shrink despite his proven production and value.
Rather than keeping a talented veteran in a reduced role, the Lions traded Montgomery to the Houston Texans in exchange for draft compensation and offensive lineman Juice Scruggs. The move gives Montgomery exactly what he was looking for — an opportunity to serve as a team’s primary running back once again.
Montgomery is expected to enter the 2026 season as Houston’s RB1, and the veteran appears grateful for how the Lions handled his departure. In a recent Instagram post, Montgomery shared a heartfelt message to Detroit fans:
“You could never make me hate Detroit! Will love that place forever!”
The statement speaks volumes about the relationship Montgomery built during his time with the organization. Even though he spent more seasons with the Chicago Bears before joining Detroit, his connection with the Lions and their fan base remains undeniable.
David Montgomery Continues Praising Detroit Following Texans Trade
Montgomery’s departure officially ends one of the NFL’s most productive running back duos. Alongside Jahmyr Gibbs, the pair known as “Sonic and Knuckles” became a major part of Detroit’s offensive identity during the Lions’ rise to contention.
While Gibbs emerged as a superstar playmaker, Montgomery provided the physical, hard-nosed rushing style that made Detroit’s backfield so difficult to defend. His ability to grind out tough yards and score in short-yardage situations helped fuel the Lions’ success in 2023 and 2024.
During his tenure in Detroit, Montgomery rushed for 2,506 yards and 33 touchdowns while averaging 4.5 yards per carry. His consistent production and leadership made him one of the most important pieces of the Lions’ offense.
The Lions are hoping newcomer Isiah Pacheco can bring a similar level of toughness to the running game, but replacing Montgomery’s impact won’t be easy.
Texans Land Proven Veteran Running Back
For Houston, acquiring Montgomery addresses a major offensive need. The Texans struggled to establish a consistent rushing attack in 2025, averaging just 3.9 yards per carry and scoring only nine rushing touchdowns.
Montgomery nearly matched that touchdown total by himself last season, finding the end zone eight times despite sharing carries in Detroit. His arrival should provide much-needed balance for an offense led by quarterback C.J. Stroud.
The trade ultimately appears beneficial for both sides. Montgomery receives a larger role, while the Lions continue building around Gibbs as the centerpiece of their backfield.
Lions Move Forward After Difficult Decision
Although the trade made football sense, it remains difficult for Lions fans to see such an important contributor leave. Montgomery played a key role in helping transform Detroit into a legitimate contender and was a fan favorite throughout his time with the franchise.
As the Lions continue chasing championships, difficult roster decisions become part of the process. Moving on from a respected veteran like Montgomery is never easy, but his recent comments show there is still plenty of mutual respect between player and organization.
Even in Houston, David Montgomery continues to prove that Detroit will always hold a special place in his heart.
