Just a day after expressing displeasure over reports that he wanted to leave the Detroit Lions, running back David Montgomery found a new home. On Monday morning, ESPN’s Adam Schefter revealed that the Lions had agreed to trade Montgomery to the Houston Texans.
Details of the Trade Package Exchanged
The NFL Network soon confirmed that the Texans offered a significant package in return. According to Pelissero on X,
“Compensation update: The Texans are sending OL Juice Scruggs, a 4th-rounder and a 7th-rounder to Detroit for David Montgomery.”
This exchange highlights Houston’s commitment to acquire the veteran back.
Montgomery’s Recent Performance and Role with the Lions
Montgomery, who has two years left on his contract, spent three seasons with Detroit. During this period, he shared the backfield with first-round selection Jahmyr Gibbs. Despite his experience, Montgomery’s playing time steadily declined, as he recorded career lows in carries over the last two seasons.
In 2025, he ran for 716 yards and scored eight touchdowns, averaging 4.5 yards per carry, all while not starting a game for the first time in his professional career. Turning 29 in June, Montgomery now looks to make an impact with the Texans.
Implications of Montgomery’s Move to Houston
This trade may represent a fresh opportunity for Montgomery to regain a more central role in an NFL offense. The Texans, in return, will bolster their roster with promising assets including offensive lineman Juice Scruggs and future draft picks. Both teams appear to be balancing immediate needs with long-term planning through this deal.
Trade: Lions are sending RB David Montgomery to the Texans for a 5th-round pick, per sources. pic.twitter.com/0DmXwSN2My
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 2, 2026
Compensation update: The Texans are sending OL Juice Scruggs, a 4th-rounder and a 7th-rounder to Detroit for David Montgomery. https://t.co/EQaSP8sW1e
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) March 2, 2026
