The NFL world is abuzz with the recent trade involving David Montgomery, and national analysts are weighing in on the Detroit Lions' decision. The fan-favorite running back was traded to the Houston Texans in exchange for draft picks and an offensive lineman, sparking a range of reactions and discussions. Here's a look at what some NFL analysts are saying about the big move:
A Trusty Plough in the Red Zone
"A gritty runner, Montgomery is a trusty plow who can run through arm tackles and consistently falls forward. He is also capable as an outlet receiver. Montgomery should immediately aid in the red zone. ... Pairing Montgomery and (Woody) Marks gives a good one-two punch out of the backfield."
A Savvy Financial Move
"Moving on from a player whose role is only getting smaller within your offense makes sense. Montgomery also had no guaranteed money left on his contract, so he likely would have looked for a revamped contract, making this a savvy financial move by the Lions, as well. They avoid needing to shell out money to a running back entering his age-29 season."
Depth and Versatility
"Scruggs is a former second-round pick and has 20 starts in three seasons, but couldn’t crack the starting lineup for the Texans last season and was expendable. He’ll add depth at guard and was practically free for the Lions, given the draft-pick compensation was the key to the deal. ... Montgomery was an effective player in his role and he won’t be easy to replace. It seems like a good deal for the Lions, but let’s see how they plan to replace Montgomery."
A Strategic Move for the Draft
"(Brad) Holmes has more resources to go hunting for Day 2 and 3 gems in the draft, and Scruggs, a 2023 second-round pick, is a decent depth toss-in for a franchise forced to rethink its own front."
A Solid Complement for Gibbs
"While Jahmyr Gibbs has shown he can handle a high-volume workload, Montgomery is still one of the league’s better change-of-pace and short-yardage backs. Still, Detroit should be able to find a solid complement to Gibbs in free agency or the draft. The backfield may not be as potent with a new RB2, but with Gibbs leading the rotation, it should remain functional. The Lions are getting solid compensation in return for Montgomery, plus a young lineman in Juice Scruggs. The 2023 second-round pick has 20 starts on his resume and should compete for playing time along the interior."
And onto the rest of your notes:
- Some beat reporters are posting some of their favorite Montgomery moments.
- This was from the other day, but I thought you had to see it.
- As mentioned in Notes last week, the NFL has expanded to nine international games in 2026 and hopes to get to 16 someday.
- A lot of attention is being paid to Montgomery, of course, but the Lions also released another fan favorite, offensive lineman Graham Glasgow.
