The Detroit Lions initiated a significant offseason change by trading their number two running back, David Montgomery, to the Houston Texans. This transaction, completed after weeks of speculation, appears to clear the way for Jahmyr Gibbs to take over as the lead running back in Detroit’s backfield for the 2024 season, emphasizing the team’s confidence in his abilities.
In exchange for Montgomery, the Lions received offensive lineman Juice Scruggs and two draft picks from the Texans, strengthening Detroit’s roster both immediately and for the future. Montgomery, noted for his impressive career milestones — including rushing for over 6,000 yards and 50 touchdowns since 2019 — saw a decreasing role throughout last season, reflecting a shift in the Lions’ backfield strategy.
Reduced Playing Time Leads to Trade Decision
According to ESPN’s DJ Bien-Aime, Montgomery’s time on the field dropped notably as the 2023 season progressed. Bien-Aime detailed that Montgomery participated in only 41% of the offensive snaps overall, which decreased to 33% during Weeks 11 through 18.
“Montgomery played 41% of the offensive snaps, but that dropped to 33% in Weeks 11-18, per ESPN Research. He didn’t have more than 10 carries in a game in any of the Lions’ final eight games,”
Bien-Aime reported.
This reduction in workload contributed to Montgomery’s dissatisfaction, prompting what was described as healthy dialogue with Lions general manager Brad Holmes about his future with the team. The trade now gives Montgomery an opportunity to reclaim a top role with the Texans, while Detroit moves toward a backfield led by Gibbs.
Jahmyr Gibbs Set to Become Lions’ Featured Back
With Montgomery’s departure, all eyes turn to Jahmyr Gibbs, who steadily developed into one of the NFL’s most dynamic running backs last season. Yahoo Sports’ Matt Harmon interpreted the trade as a clear endorsement of Gibbs as the Lions’ primary offensive weapon in the backfield.
“Perhaps most important of all, you can now fully lean into empowering Gibbs, who for my money, is as good as any offensive skill-position player in the league,”
Harmon stated.
“Gibbs is a do-it-all threat who is a weapon in the receiving game, as well as a painfully underrated rusher on base downs. He’s become a smart runner who reads out his blocks well and put up monster games down the stretch as the feature back. There’s no reason he can’t handle being the focal point of this run game.”
Despite the increased responsibility, the elevated role also places more pressure on Gibbs, who until now benefited from splitting carries with Montgomery, a proven No. 1 back in his own right.
Backfield Depth Remains a Concern for the Lions
While the trade allows Gibbs to take on a bellcow role, the Lions face the challenge of strengthening their supporting cast behind him. Currently, the depth chart features largely unproven players, leaving questions about the team’s running back support.
Jacob Saylors remains primarily a return specialist, and third-round pick Sione Vaki has contributed mostly on special teams. Kye Robichaux is also on the roster but continues to recover from a season-ending injury. This leaves the Lions with limited experienced options beyond Gibbs.
The team could pursue low-cost veteran talent in free agency to provide short-yardage relief and solidify the backfield. Such additions will be critical to maintaining a balanced offensive attack and ensuring Gibbs receives proper support.
Implications for the Lions’ Offensive Strategy in 2024
The decision to trade Montgomery and elevate Jahmyr Gibbs underscores the Lions’ commitment to building around their young star’s versatile skill set. Gibbs’s ability to contribute both as a rusher and receiver aligns well with the team’s offensive philosophy and carries the potential to boost Detroit’s ground game effectiveness.
Moving forward, the Lions will need to address backfield depth to avoid overburdening Gibbs and to maintain offensive consistency. The success of this strategy will play a major role in Detroit’s competitiveness during the upcoming NFL season, making the 2024 campaign a pivotal year for the team’s running backs and overall offensive production.
