In a development that has Lions fans breathing a sigh of relief amid ongoing speculation about roster changes, Detroit running back David Montgomery appears to have provided strong hints about his long-term commitment to the team. The 29-year-old veteran, who signed a two-year, $18.25 million extension with the Lions in October 2024 (carrying an average annual value of $9.125 million and $10.5 million in new guarantees), has faced questions about his role heading into the 2026 offseason.
With the Lions’ backfield featuring the dynamic Jahmyr Gibbs and cap pressures looming, some analysts had speculated Montgomery could be a candidate for a post-June 1 cut to free up space—potentially saving the team around $6 million in 2026 while incurring minimal dead money.
However, recent comments from Montgomery suggest he’s fully invested in remaining a key piece of Detroit’s offense. In interviews and social media interactions around the Pro Bowl and offseason activities in early February 2026, the former Chicago Bears standout expressed gratitude for the opportunity in Detroit and emphasized his excitement about the team’s direction under head coach Dan Campbell. While he stopped short of an explicit “I’m staying forever” declaration, Montgomery highlighted how the Lions’ culture, the complementary fit with Gibbs, and the chance to chase another deep playoff run have him motivated to contribute for years to come.
Sources close to the situation indicate these remarks were interpreted by many as an informal confirmation that he’s not pushing for a trade or exit, effectively quelling much of the uncertainty surrounding his future.
Montgomery’s journey with the Lions began in 2023 when he signed a three-year, $18 million free-agent deal after a productive stint in Chicago. In his debut season, he rushed for over 1,000 yards and 13 touchdowns in 14 games, proving to be a reliable power back who complemented the explosive Gibbs. The 2024 extension—adding two years through 2027—was seen as a reward for his consistency and a signal that Detroit valued the thunder-and-lightning duo in the backfield.
Through injuries and workload management, Montgomery has remained a steady force: a downhill runner who excels in short-yardage situations, pass protection, and goal-line work.
The timing of this perceived confirmation is notable. The Lions enter the 2026 offseason with projected salary cap flexibility—estimates place them anywhere from $45-65 million under the cap depending on restructures—but also with big decisions ahead. Jared Goff’s massive cap hit (around $69.6 million in 2026) will likely require adjustments, while young stars like Gibbs, Sam LaPorta, Brian Branch, and Jack Campbell are extension candidates. Running back is a fluid position in today’s NFL, where backs like Saquon Barkley recently secured $20+ million AAV deals, but teams often prioritize youth.
Gibbs, the 2023 first-round pick, has emerged as the lead back with elite efficiency (averaging over 5 yards per carry), raising questions about Montgomery’s long-term snaps.
Yet Montgomery’s value goes beyond raw stats. He’s a locker-room leader, a veteran presence who mentors younger players, and a durable option who can handle 15-20 carries per game when needed. His comments reinforce the narrative that the Lions’ backfield tandem is one of the league’s best, with Gibbs providing home-run speed and Montgomery delivering the physicality that wears down defenses. Campbell has repeatedly praised the duo’s chemistry, calling it a “perfect balance” that keeps opponents guessing.
Fan reaction has been overwhelmingly positive. On social media and Lions forums, supporters celebrated the apparent stability: “Monty staying means our run game stays elite,” one fan posted. Others noted how his presence allows the team to ease Gibbs’ workload, preserving the young star for bigger moments. Analysts point out that with the extension already in place, any “confirmation” is more about mindset than contract drama—Montgomery is locked in through 2027 unless the team decides otherwise.
Of course, nothing is set in stone in the NFL. Cap gymnastics, injuries, or a surprise extension for Gibbs could shift priorities. But for now, Montgomery’s words have provided reassurance. In a league where player movement dominates headlines, the idea that a $18.25 million star is content—and perhaps even committed—to staying in Detroit feels like a win for a franchise building toward sustained contention.
Of course, nothing is set in stone in the NFL. Cap gymnastics, injuries, or a surprise extension for Gibbs could shift priorities. But for now, Montgomery’s words have provided reassurance. In a league where player movement dominates headlines, the idea that a $18.25 million star is content—and perhaps even committed—to staying in Detroit feels like a win for a franchise building toward sustained contention.
As the Lions gear up for free agency, the draft, and another push in the NFC North, having Montgomery’s thunder in the backfield remains a comforting constant. Whether this “confirmation” holds through the offseason or evolves into something more formal, one thing is clear: David Montgomery sees his future in Honolulu Blue, and Detroit fans couldn’t be happier about it.
