The Kansas City Chiefs are facing critical choices ahead of the 2026 NFL offseason as they look to rebound from missing the playoffs in 2025. Central to their plans is bolstering their running game, especially with concerns that star quarterback Patrick Mahomes may be sidelined early next season due to a knee injury sustained in December 2025.
Reports from Bleacher Report on Friday highlighted a potential trade involving Detroit Lions running back David Montgomery, suggesting the Chiefs could exchange a fifth-round draft pick for the seasoned back. This acquisition would help mitigate the impact of Mahomes’ absence and strengthen Kansas City’s rushing attack.
David Montgomery’s Experience and Contract Details
Montgomery, who signed a two-year, $18.25 million contract extension with Detroit in October 2024, is secured with the Lions through the 2027 season. In 2025, he rushed for 716 yards and scored eight touchdowns on 158 carries, while adding 192 receiving yards on 24 catches. Entering his eighth NFL season in 2026, Montgomery has substantial experience, including four years with the Chicago Bears before joining Detroit in March 2023.
Mahomes’ Injury Casts Uncertainty Over Chiefs’ Early 2026 Prospects
Mahomes suffered a torn ACL in his left knee late last year, raising questions about how many games he may miss at the start of the upcoming season. His recovery timeline suggests a possible absence from the field during the Chiefs’ initial matchups, putting additional pressure on the running game and defense to perform during this period.
Mahomes’ Impact and Chiefs’ Recent Performance Decline
Since being drafted tenth overall by Kansas City in 2017, Mahomes transformed the franchise, taking over as the starting quarterback in 2018. The 2025 season marked the first time since his arrival that the Chiefs failed to reach the playoffs, ending a streak of nine consecutive AFC West division titles. The Denver Broncos claimed the division crown last season, intensifying the competition in the conference.
Mahomes has led the Chiefs to five Super Bowl appearances, capturing three championships, cementing his status as one of the premier quarterbacks in the NFL.
Trade Discussions Gain Momentum Amid Chiefs’ Urgent Needs
The addition of Montgomery is seen as a possible strategic move to reduce reliance on Mahomes when he is unavailable, helping the Chiefs maintain offensive balance. As the team prepares for the 2026 season, front office decisions in free agency and the draft will be closely watched, especially given the unpredictability surrounding Mahomes’ health.
This potential trade reflects the urgency for Kansas City to reinforce its running game and improve team depth, alongside managing the challenges posed by last season’s setbacks.
“I don’t see Jags giving him up”
— NFL fan reaction to trade speculation involving Travis Etienne
“We don’t spend a lot of money”
— Eric DeCosta, Ravens GM, on free agency plans post-2025 season
