David Montgomery was once one of the most reliable power running backs in the NFL. After joining the Detroit Lions, he became a key part of a hard-nosed rushing attack that helped the team control games. However, during the 2025 season, fans and analysts have noticed a clear shift.
The David Montgomery reduced role in the Lions offense has become a major talking point. His carries are down, his snap count has declined, and Jahmyr Gibbs has taken on a larger share of the workload. So what’s actually happening in Detroit?
This beginner-friendly guide breaks it all down in simple terms.
David Montgomery’s Original Role With the Lions
When Montgomery arrived in Detroit, the plan was clear. He would be the physical, between-the-tackles runner who wore down defenses. Meanwhile, Jahmyr Gibbs would handle explosive plays, speed, and receiving work.
Early on, this formula worked perfectly.
- Montgomery handled goal-line carries
- He closed out games with physical runs
- The Lions used him to control the clock
This balance allowed Detroit to keep defenses guessing while protecting their quarterback.
The Shift: David Montgomery’s Reduced Role
As the season progressed, the Lions began changing how they used their backfield. The David Montgomery workload decrease became noticeable in several areas:
- Fewer rushing attempts per game
- Reduced snap count compared to earlier weeks
- More drives dominated by Jahmyr Gibbs
This doesn’t mean Montgomery suddenly became ineffective. Instead, it reflects a strategic adjustment by the coaching staff.
David Montgomery Role Behind Jahmyr Gibbs Explained
Jahmyr Gibbs has developed faster than many expected. His ability to create big plays has changed how defenses approach Detroit’s offense.
Here’s why Gibbs’ rise affects Montgomery:
- Gibbs forces defenses to play lighter boxes
- His speed stretches the field horizontally
- He offers more versatility in passing situations
As a result, the David Montgomery role behind Jahmyr Gibbs has become more situational rather than central.
Montgomery is now used when:
- The Lions need short-yardage conversions
- They want to protect a late lead
- Physical running is required near the goal line
Why the Lions Aren’t Using David Montgomery as Much
Many fans ask, why aren’t the Lions using David Montgomery? The answer isn’t about decline or poor performance.
Key reasons include:
1. Offensive evolution
Detroit’s offense has become more explosive and speed-based, favoring Gibbs’ skill set.
2. Game script changes
When the Lions fall behind or play shootouts, they rely less on power running.
3. Player health management
Limiting Montgomery’s touches reduces wear and tear over a long season.
This approach helps keep both running backs effective when it matters most.
Lions Running Back Rotation Explained
The Lions running back rotation is now more matchup-driven than ever.
Montgomery’s primary usage:
- Short-yardage situations
- Red-zone carries
- Clock-killing drives
Gibbs’ primary usage:
- Early-down explosive plays
- Passing situations
- Outside runs and screens
This rotation allows Detroit to maximize efficiency, even if it lowers Montgomery’s overall stats.
David Montgomery Snap Count Decline: What the Numbers Say
One of the biggest indicators of Montgomery’s reduced role is his snap count.
Compared to earlier seasons:
- He plays fewer total snaps per game
- Gibbs often stays on the field for entire drives
- Montgomery is rotated in for specific packages
However, his efficiency per carry remains solid, showing the issue is opportunity, not performance.
David Montgomery vs Jahmyr Gibbs Usage Comparison
When comparing David Montgomery vs Jahmyr Gibbs usage, the difference is clear:
| Category | Montgomery | Gibbs |
|---|---|---|
| Power runs | High | Low |
| Explosive plays | Low | High |
| Pass catching | Limited | Heavy |
| Goal-line work | Primary | Occasional |
This usage split explains why Montgomery’s fantasy numbers fluctuate week to week.
Is David Montgomery Still Fantasy Relevant?
A common question is: Is David Montgomery still RB2 material?
The answer depends on league format.
Standard leagues
Yes — touchdowns and short-yardage work still matter.
PPR leagues
His value drops due to fewer receptions.
Best-ball formats
He’s useful but inconsistent.
Overall, David Montgomery fantasy value in 2025 is matchup-dependent rather than automatic.
Is David Montgomery Being Traded?
Trade rumors often follow reduced usage, and fans continue asking: Is David Montgomery being traded?
At the moment:
- There is no confirmed trade request
- The Lions still value his physical running style
- His contract makes him affordable depth
A trade would only happen if:
- Another team offers strong value
- Detroit fully commits to Gibbs as a workhorse
For now, Montgomery remains an important piece of the roster.
What This Means for the Detroit Lions
From a team perspective, the Detroit Lions backfield analysis shows a smart, long-term approach.
Benefits include:
- Reduced injury risk
- More flexible game planning
- Better late-season durability
Rather than forcing one running back into a heavy workload, Detroit is playing the long game.
What to Expect Moving Forward
Looking ahead, Montgomery’s role is unlikely to disappear. Instead, expect:
- Continued red-zone usage
- Heavy involvement in close games
- Occasional spike weeks when matchups favor power running
The David Montgomery reduced role in the Lions offense is about efficiency, not replacement.
Final Thoughts
David Montgomery hasn’t lost his place in Detroit — his role has simply evolved. With Jahmyr Gibbs emerging as a dynamic weapon, the Lions are adjusting how they deploy their running backs.
For fans, fantasy managers, and analysts, understanding this shift provides clarity. Montgomery still matters, just in a more targeted way.
If Detroit makes a deep playoff run, don’t be surprised if Montgomery’s physical style becomes even more important when the games truly count.
