Now that they have time to look back and take the best things out of the last season, the Detroit Lions see the 2026 offseason as the perfect chance to leave this year behind and step up.
As Dan Campbell’s squad looks to reclaim the NFC North and challenge the Seattle Seahawks for the conference throne, the front office is reportedly weighing a heartbreaking move that would break up the NFL’s most feared backfield duo.
Following the shocking retirement of offensive tackle Dan Skipper, the Lions are now bracing for the potential departure of David Montgomery.
The end of “Sonic and Knuckles”?
For the past three seasons, Montgomery alongside Jahmyr Gibbs have formed a partnership that completely terrorized their rivals. However, the 2025 season meant a clear shift in power. While Gibbs soared to a Pro Bowl season with over 1,200 rushing yards and 18 total touchdowns, Montgomery’s role began to dwindle.
Despite playing in all 17 games for the first time in his career, Montgomery recorded a career-low 158 carries. The discrepancy in his stats was most evident over the final eight games, where the veteran reached double-digit carries only once. Alex Ballentine of Bleacher Report wrote on Friday.
“David Montgomery was effective in his role and the savings aren’t huge, Yet, his role took another step back to Jahmyr Gibbs… it makes sense for the Lions to move on from him rather than keeping his full salary on the books.
“He deserves to be utilized”
Lions General Manager Brad Holmes addressed the situation with a mix of pragmatism and deep respect for the 28-year-old rusher. During a press conference, Holmes admitted that conversations would be held regarding Montgomery’s future.
“He deserves to be in a situation where his skill set can be utilized. I hope he stays because we love David Montgomery… but if it can’t be here, then you would have to just see what you can work out the best for him.
This shows the difficult position of a star who still has a lot to give but has been surpassed by a younger phenom.
Read the full article here
