Detroit Lions running back David Montgomery quickly shut down speculation after a report suggested he wants out of the Motor City.
According to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, Montgomery has reportedly asked to be traded. The report added that Detroit would seek “a decent Day 3 pick,” potentially a fifth-round selection in the 2026 NFL Draft, in return. The 28-year-old is entering the second-to-last year of his contract and is set to earn $6 million next season, making him an affordable option for a team seeking backfield depth.
However, Montgomery wasted little time addressing the claim directly on social media. On X, he responded bluntly:
Damn, Dmo told you that ?
The single-word reply – slang for “that’s not true” – quickly circulated among fans, casting doubt on the initial report and signaling that Montgomery may not be actively pushing for an exit after all.
Why Montgomery’s role came into question
Montgomery’s status became a topic of conversation during the 2025 season as his workload declined in key stretches. From mid-November through late December, he failed to record double-digit carries in six consecutive games. Overall, he had fewer than 10 carries in nine games last season, including seven of the final eight.
That reduced usage led to career lows in carries (158) and rushing yards (716), though he still managed to score eight rushing touchdowns. At 5-foot-11 and 230 pounds, Montgomery remains a powerful between-the-tackles runner, but Detroit’s offensive distribution raised questions about his long-term role.
The Lions’ backfield tandem – often dubbed “Sonic & Knuckles” – was once considered one of the league’s most complementary duos. If trade talks were real, it would signal a significant shift in Detroit’s offensive identity.
Seattle was mentioned as a potential landing spot, particularly if the Seahawks struggle to retain Super Bowl MVP Kenneth Walker III. Given Montgomery’s experience and durability, he could fit into a rotational system elsewhere.
Montgomery’s career production still holds value
Despite last season’s dip, Montgomery’s résumé remains strong. In 105 career games, he has rushed for 6,115 yards and 59 touchdowns. The Iowa State product also owns two 1,000-yard rushing seasons and has contributed 1,890 receiving yards with four scores through the air.
For Detroit, the question becomes whether cap flexibility and draft capital outweigh veteran stability. For Montgomery, his social media denial suggests he is not publicly angling for a move.
As the NFL offseason continues and roster decisions unfold, speculation may persist. But for now, Montgomery’s message is clear: reports of his desire to leave Detroit are, in his words, “cap.”
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