On Sunday, Detroit Lions running back David Montgomery returned to his hometown of Cincinnati, and it turned into one of the most emotional and meaningful games of his NFL career.
A Homecoming Years in the Making
For the first time since entering the NFL in 2019, Montgomery finally got the chance to play in front of his hometown crowd. And he made it count. The Lions’ veteran back carried the ball 18 times for 65 yards and a touchdown, while also showing off his versatility by throwing a touchdown pass in the first half of Detroit’s 37-24 win over the Bengals.
Mount Healthy High School QB tosses a @NFL tuddy @montgomerdavid #DETvsCIN 📺 FOX pic.twitter.com/IvKRJSqZQi
— Detroit Lions (@Lions) October 5, 2025
Hometown kid's in the endzone 🙌#DETvsCIN 📺 FOX pic.twitter.com/xIajHB2A5m
— Detroit Lions (@Lions) October 5, 2025
But this game wasn’t just about football. It was about family, faith, and gratitude.
Montgomery’s Emotional Tribute to His Sister
This game marked a deeply personal milestone for Montgomery. His sister, who was paralyzed from the neck down following a car accident last year, was able to see him play in person for the first time since her injury.
After the game, Montgomery took a moment to express his heartfelt appreciation for the Bengals organization, who helped make the experience possible.
“To be able to get her here, I really appreciate the Cincinnati Bengals for making sure she got on the field,” Montgomery said as quoted by 97.1 The Ticket. “That was really special.”
— DetroitSportsNation (@detsportsnation) October 6, 2025
That act of kindness clearly meant the world to Montgomery, who’s spoken often about the strength and resilience of his family.
Dan Campbell Made Sure This One Mattered
Lions head coach Dan Campbell has a reputation for understanding the emotional side of the game, and this was no exception. It wouldn’t be surprising if Campbell intentionally gave Montgomery the start and the bulk of the action, knowing how much this moment meant to him and his family.
Montgomery rewarded that trust in a big way, leading the Lions’ offense early and setting the tone for the team’s dominant win.
A Game to Remember for the Montgomery Family
This wasn’t just another Week 5 matchup; it was a full-circle moment. The hometown kid shone in front of his family, thanked his former hometown team, and delivered one of the most heartfelt postgame comments of the NFL weekend.
As the Lions continue their impressive start to the season, Sunday’s game will stand out as more than a stat line, it was a victory built on love, perseverance, and perspective.
4 Responses
He is a class act. The Lions are blessed to have him.
Absolutely loved seeing his sister there to see him play!!! Loved being able to witness the touching moment before the game that they shared!! The only thing that could have made it cooler would have been if he would have presented her with the ball that he threw the touchdown with! Love the class he exudes!!!! Love my Lions!!!
Each member of the Lions organization shows their love, talents & appreciation of being a part of this team. David is no exception. What heartfelt moments he played through & being in the city he grew up in with his family there was such a gift. The Lions are not just a team. they are a Family in and of themselves and it shows in everything they do. Thanks to all of the Lions organization for showing us what real Champions are.
What beautiful moments for David, his sister, and really the entire Lions organization for supporting family. If Dan did give David a few opportunities, good on him. He knows how to take care of his team.