The Detroit Lions face crucial decisions this offseason, particularly concerning the future of running back David Montgomery. Montgomery, a fan favorite, experienced a decline in performance during the 2025 season, prompting discussions about his contract and role with the team. Meanwhile, the recent three-year, $24 million contract extension with $16 million guaranteed for Dallas Cowboys’ running back Javonte Williams could impact Montgomery’s prospects in Detroit.
Williams’ new deal effectively removes a top free-agent option from the market, potentially encouraging Montgomery to remain with the Lions despite calls for a pay cut linked to his $8.3 million cap hit. Given Montgomery’s age of 28, Detroit must weigh the value he still offers against financial realities and free agency interest from other teams seeking a lead back.
Analyzing Montgomery’s Decline and the Impact of Williams’ Signing
David Montgomery’s production has decreased over the past three seasons. After rushing for 1,015 yards and 13 touchdowns in 2023, and 775 yards with 12 touchdowns in 2024, his output dropped to 716 yards and eight touchdowns last year. Factors such as the offensive strategy under former coordinator John Morton contributed to this slide, but Montgomery’s own metrics, including success rate and yards after contact, also declined.
Jahmyr Gibbs, a rising star on the Lions’ roster, recently commented, “it’s ultimately up to [Montgomery]” regarding his decision to stay, highlighting the uncertainty around Montgomery’s future. Gibbs’ own lucrative contract extension, potentially exceeding $20 million per season, further complicates the backfield dynamic.
Williams, two years younger than Montgomery, had a stronger season in 2025 with 1,201 rushing yards and 11 touchdowns. However, his average annual value of $8 million is less than Montgomery’s 2026 cap hit, positioning Detroit to potentially retain Montgomery at a lower cost. The performance-based cap valuation of $2.9 million for Montgomery may also signal to both player and team that a pay reduction is likely regardless of his location.
The Strategic Benefits for Detroit Lions in Retaining Montgomery
Securing Montgomery for another season would remove a major pending contract question for the Lions, enabling the team to focus resources on strengthening offensive and defensive lines. Additionally, resolving Montgomery’s situation could facilitate progress on Jahmyr Gibbs’ extension and allow the team to restructure salaries to create cap space for free agency moves.
Williams’ extension is viewed as a pivotal development that could help Detroit avoid a costly free-agent bidding war and maintain stability in the running back position. This move may represent an important early victory in what is expected to be a challenging offseason for the franchise.
“it’s ultimately up to [Montgomery]” – Jahmyr Gibbs, Lions Running Back
The #Cowboys and standout RB Javonte Williams have agreed to terms on a 3-year deal worth $24M, sources say. Dallas keeps a big-time player.
He gets his $8M per year after a breakout season in a deal was done by @AgentNicoleLynn of @KlutchSports. pic.twitter.com/xHTcWxl4VF
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) February 21, 2026
