Texans land David Montgomery in blockbuster trade: Is Houston’s run game finally fixed?
David Montgomery trade
The Houston Texans have made a bold statement ahead of the 2026 NFL season, securing veteran running back David Montgomery in a trade with the Detroit Lions. The deal, confirmed by league sources on Monday, signals a major shift in Houston’s offensive strategy as the team looks to rebound from a disappointing 2025 campaign.
In exchange for Montgomery, the Lions will receive offensive lineman Juice Scruggs along with two future draft selections — a fourth-round pick in 2026 and a seventh-round pick in 2027. The move reshapes both rosters and raises important questions about the direction each franchise is heading.
A Proven Playmaker Heads to Houston
Montgomery arrives in Houston with a résumé that speaks for itself. During his three seasons in Detroit, he compiled 2,506 rushing yards and found the end zone 33 times. Before that, he spent four seasons with the Chicago Bears, who selected him in the third round of the 2019 NFL Draft.
Since entering the league in 2019, Montgomery has quietly built an elite statistical profile. He is one of just five players during that span to eclipse 6,000 rushing yards and 50 rushing touchdowns — joining stars like Derrick Henry, Josh Jacobs, Jonathan Taylor and Christian McCaffrey.
That level of production gives Houston something it desperately lacked last season: consistency and reliability in the ground game.
Texans Address a Major Weakness
Houston struggled to establish its rushing attack in 2025, finishing 22nd in the league with just 108 rushing yards per game. Rookie Woody Marks led the team with 703 yards, while veteran Nick Chubb is currently set to hit free agency.
Montgomery is now expected to take over as the Texans’ primary running back entering the 2026 season. His arrival also clarifies the uncertain future of Joe Mixon. Houston traded for Mixon two years ago, but a foot injury sidelined him for the entire 2025 season. League insiders believe the Texans are likely to release him as part of their roster reset.
Why Detroit Moved On
The trade marks the end of a productive but evolving chapter for the Lions. In 2025, Montgomery saw his role reduced significantly while sharing the backfield with Pro Bowl running back Jahmyr Gibbs.
After averaging over 14 carries per game in his first two seasons with Detroit, Montgomery’s workload dipped to just 9.3 carries per game last year. Despite playing all 17 games, he recorded career lows in rush attempts and total touches. His snap share also declined sharply during the second half of the season.
Montgomery reportedly engaged in open discussions with Lions general manager Brad Holmes this offseason about his role and future with the team. Ultimately, both sides agreed that a fresh start would be best.
In a heartfelt Instagram farewell, Montgomery thanked Detroit fans, writing that the city’s work ethic and grit would stay with him moving forward.
Meanwhile, Gibbs shared an emotional tribute on social media, referencing their popular “Sonic and Knuckles” nickname — a nod to their complementary playing styles in Detroit’s backfield.
Contract and Financial Implications
Montgomery will turn 29 in June and is entering the first year of a two-year, $18.25 million extension he signed with Detroit in October 2024. He is scheduled to earn $5.49 million in 2026.
For Detroit, the deal is also about rebuilding the trenches. The Lions missed the playoffs for the first time since 2022 and are prioritizing upgrades to their offensive line. The unit ranked near the bottom of the league in both run-block and pass-block win rates last season.
Scruggs’ arrival, along with additional draft capital, gives Detroit flexibility as it works to strengthen its interior protection.
What This Means Going Forward
For Houston, this trade represents a clear commitment to balance and offensive stability. A strong rushing attack can ease pressure on the passing game and control tempo — something the Texans sorely lacked last season.
For Detroit, it signals confidence in Gibbs as the unquestioned lead back while reallocating resources toward rebuilding its offensive front.
The ripple effects of this deal will be closely watched throughout the 2026 season.
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FAQ
Why did the Texans trade for David Montgomery?
Houston needed a proven running back after ranking 22nd in rushing offense last season. Montgomery provides immediate stability and production.
What did the Lions receive in return?
Detroit acquired offensive lineman Juice Scruggs, a 2026 fourth-round draft pick, and a 2027 seventh-round pick.
Will Joe Mixon remain with the Texans?
League sources expect Houston is likely to release Mixon following Montgomery’s arrival.
Why was Montgomery unhappy in Detroit?
His role decreased significantly in 2025 as Jahmyr Gibbs took on a larger share of the workload.
How old is David Montgomery?
He will turn 29 in June 2026.