Brad Holmes Hints At Future For David Montgomery

The Detroit Lions may be approaching a pivotal decision this offseason, and general manager Brad Holmes didn’t shy away from the topic when asked about the future of running back David Montgomery.

Speaking candidly, Holmes acknowledged that 2025 was a challenging year for Montgomery, not because of performance, but because of opportunity.

“Yeah, obviously, I know it was a tough year for him, in terms of the lack of touches, and I’m not going to say we went in to it planning for it to be that way,” Holmes said. “I thought he handled it like a pro.”

The Numbers Tell the Story

The frustration is easy to understand when you look at the usage.

• 2024: 221 total touches (185 rushing, 36 receiving) in 14 games
• 2025: 182 total touches (158 rushing, 24 receiving) in 17 games

That’s 39 fewer touches in three more games, a significant drop for a player whose value has always been tied to physicality, rhythm, and volume. Despite the reduced workload, Montgomery still averaged 4.5 yards per carry and scored eight touchdowns in 2025, showing he remained effective even with limited chances.

Honest Conversations Ahead

Holmes made it clear that the organization respects Montgomery too much to ignore the situation.

“Those are discussions we’re gonna have to have a lot more in depth in terms of what is the best plan for him going forward,” Holmes said. “Is it somewhere else, or whatever the case be.”

While Holmes stressed that the Lions would prefer to keep Montgomery in Detroit, he also emphasized that the player’s career comes first.

“We love David Montgomery. He’s a good football player, and I wish we would have been able to get more utilization from him. I know Dan feels the same way.”

A Matter of Fit — Not Ability

Montgomery’s role has evolved since arriving in Detroit, particularly with the emergence of Jahmyr Gibbs as a dynamic, high-usage weapon. That shift doesn’t reflect a decline in Montgomery’s skill set, just a changing offensive identity.

Holmes acknowledged that reality directly.

“He deserves to be in a situation where his skillset can be utilized,” Holmes said. “So, we would love for it to be here, but if it can’t be here, then you just have to see what you can work out that is best for him.”

What Comes Next?

Nothing has been decided yet, but Holmes’ comments suggest the Lions are bracing for difficult but respectful conversations. Whether Montgomery remains in Detroit or finds a new opportunity elsewhere, it’s clear the organization values what he has meant to the locker room, even as his role diminished on the field.

The message was unmistakable: this isn’t about dissatisfaction, it’s about honesty, fit, and doing right by a player who has earned the league’s respect.