The Detroit Lions have agreed to trade veteran running back David Montgomery to the Houston Texans, marking a significant move early in the NFL offseason. The deal, confirmed by multiple sources, involves the Texans sending draft picks and a player to Detroit in exchange for Montgomery’s services.
Details of the Trade Between Detroit and Houston
According to Tom Pelissero, the Lions and Texans reached an agreement that will see David Montgomery join Houston’s roster. Dianna Russini reported that Houston will send a fourth-round pick, a seventh-round pick in 2027, and offensive lineman Juice Scruggs to Detroit as compensation. Adam Schefter highlighted that the seventh-round draft pick is scheduled for the 2027 NFL Draft. This package represents a notable return for a running back in today’s market.
Background on Montgomery’s Career Leading Up to the Trade
Earlier reports indicated that the Lions were exploring options to move Montgomery after his role diminished during the previous season, leading to frustration for the 28-year-old player. Montgomery originally entered the NFL when the Chicago Bears selected him in the third round of the 2019 draft out of Iowa State. After completing his four-year rookie contract with the Bears, worth approximately $4 million, he became a free agent.
Detroit subsequently signed Montgomery to a three-year deal worth $18 million, later extending the contract by two years with an $18.25 million agreement. Montgomery was set to earn base salaries of $5.49 million and $7.49 million in the final two years of this contract. In the 2025 season, he appeared in 17 games for the Lions, rushing for 716 yards on 158 carries (averaging 4.5 yards per carry) and scoring eight touchdowns, while also contributing 24 receptions for 192 yards.
Implications of the Trade for Both Teams
This transaction provides Detroit with additional draft capital and a young offensive lineman in Juice Scruggs, which may help bolster their roster depth. For Houston, acquiring David Montgomery adds a veteran running back who has proven production at the NFL level, potentially enhancing their offense in upcoming seasons. The trade is viewed as a notable adjustment for both franchises as they finalize their rosters and prepare for the next NFL campaigns.
Trade! The Lions are sending RB David Montgomery to the Texans, sources tell The Insiders. pic.twitter.com/ojzZyHVqZN
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) March 2, 2026
The Texans are trading Juice Scruggs, a fourth-round pick and a seventh-round pick for Montgomery, per source. https://t.co/LEvsmQq52p
— Dianna Russini (@DMRussini) March 2, 2026
The 7th-round pick going to the Lions in the David Montgomery deal is in 2027. https://t.co/V7m0CIbdMj
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 2, 2026
