The Detroit Lions have one of the league’s best one-two punches in the backfield with Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery.

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However, it remains to be seen if Montgomery returns to the Lions in 2026.

In January, Detroit general manager Brian Holmes suggested that the team could trade Montgomery in the offseason, allowing the former Chicago Bears running back an opportunity for more touches next season.

Jahmyr Gibbs #0 of the Detroit Lions

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“Those are conversations that we’re going to have to have because I’ve got a lot of respect for that player,” Holmes said, via Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press. “He deserves to be in a situation where his skill set can be utilized. And so yeah, would love it for it to be here, but if it can’t be here, then you would have to just see what you can work out the best for him.”

Montgomery, 28, ran the ball 158 times for 716 yards and eight touchdowns last season. He was second in rushing to 2023 first-round pick Jahmyr Gibbs, who had 243 carries for 1,223 yards and 13 touchdowns.

Per Birkett, Gibbs wants Montgomery to return to Detroit next season. But he’d support a trade if that’s what Montgomery desires.

“Of course I want David back,” Gibbs said. “The whole team would want David back, but it’s ultimately up to him. He’s going to do what’s best for him and his family and whatever he decides to do I’m going to support 100%. But of course we want him back, though.

Montgomery had one 1,000-plus rushing season during his first four years in the league in Chicago. He signed a three-year, $18 million contract with the Lions in 2023. 

Montgomery rushed for 1,015 yards and 13 touchdowns in 2023. His numbers declined in rushing in 2024, but he added 36 receptions for 341 yards. He failed to reach 1,000 all-purpose yards last season.

The Lions hired a new offensive coordinator, Drew Prezting, in January. His plans for running back could be key to Montgomery’s decision.

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