The Detroit Lions have heavily relied on their rushing offense since Dan Campbell became head coach, with David Montgomery playing a pivotal role. Throughout the recent season, Montgomery accumulated 716 rushing yards and scored eight touchdowns. However, in the final five regular-season games, he participated in over 35 percent of the team’s snaps only once, reflecting a shared workload in the backfield.
During Super Bowl week, Montgomery spoke about the dynamics of the Lions’ running back situation in an interview promoting the Boy Scouts of America. He addressed perceptions that Donovan Edwards Gibbs was taking away his carries and emphasized the benefits of having two capable backs on one team.
I wouldn’t say dealing with it, and I wouldn’t say stealing. I would say you’re on a team with the luxury of having two guys like that,
Montgomery said.
I’m a competitor just like anybody that’s playing at a high level in a professional sport. Everybody wants to play, and everybody wants to be involved. The good thing about this is that I’m an incredible teammate, and I’ll do whatever it is that I need to do to ensure that my team is going in the right direction. But I want to be a part of that, also.
– David Montgomery, Detroit Lions running back
Reflection on a Disappointing Season and Confidence in Leadership
The Lions did not meet their high expectations in the 2025 season, finishing last in the NFC North and missing the playoffs. While Montgomery admitted uncertainty about the exact reasons behind the team’s struggles, he expressed firm confidence in the leadership of general manager Brad Holmes and head coach Dan Campbell to steer the franchise back on course.
I honestly can’t answer that question. That’s why they pay Brad, and that’s why they pay coach Campbell, to get the answers to those kind of questions. This I do know — Brad and coach Campbell, they work hard. It won’t be something we’ll be living in,
Montgomery explained.
It’ll be corrected, and we’ll be right back to where we were before this year. We’re trying to go — we’re going to the Super Bowl.
– David Montgomery, Detroit Lions running back
New Offensive Coordinator Brings Optimism for Ground Game
Following the season’s conclusion, the Lions replaced offensive coordinator John Morton with Drew Petzing, who spent three years directing the Arizona Cardinals’ offense. Petzing’s expertise in designing running schemes, notably helping James Connor reach consecutive 1,000-yard rushing seasons, excites Montgomery.
In an initial discussion with Petzing, Montgomery gained confidence in the new coordinator’s preparedness and vision for improving the Lions’ offense, particularly their rushing attack.
I talked to him briefly. It’s pretty evident that he knows exactly what has to happen, and he’s prepared for the task at hand,
Montgomery shared.
It’ll be good to see what he implements in our offense and how we can improve better than we were last year.
– David Montgomery, Detroit Lions running back
Looking Ahead: Teamwork and Future Success
As the Lions look ahead to the coming seasons, Montgomery views the depth in the running game as a significant asset. His emphasis on teamwork and willingness to share responsibilities highlight a mature and unified approach within the franchise.
With respected leaders like Holmes and Campbell guiding the team, along with the promising strategic changes ushered in by Petzing, Detroit aims to return swiftly to postseason contention and pursue their Super Bowl ambitions. Montgomery’s outlook embodies both determination and hope as the Lions prepare for the challenges and opportunities ahead.
