DETROIT – Detroit Lions running back David Montgomery’s recent social media activity has raised questions about his future with the team.
Montgomery, 28, posted a photo on Instagram on Dec. 5, 2025, with the caption: “God grant me humility and gratitude and relieve me of selfishness and fear. #Blessed.”
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The post appeared innocent, but a fan commented, urging him to request a trade due to his limited playing time compared to teammate Jahmyr Gibbs.
The fan wrote, “I love you, bro, but you should request a trade. The way they’re treating you and glazing Gibbs is atrocious. Look what happens when we don’t use you. We lose.”
Montgomery appeared to like the comment, fueling speculation about his dissatisfaction.
It looks like he may have unliked it recently.
Following that, Montgomery shared a photo of his jersey in his locker on his Instagram story, without any caption, adding to the intrigue.
The Lions have enjoyed success over the past two seasons with the running back duo of Gibbs, nicknamed Sonic, and Montgomery, known as Knuckles.
Their strong running game helped Detroit achieve a 15-2 record and secure the No. 1 seed in the conference during the 2024 season.
This season, Montgomery has carried the ball 140 times for 649 yards (4.6 YPC), eight combined touchdowns, and 21 catches through 15 games.
His standout performance came in Week 3 against the Baltimore Ravens, where he rushed for 151 yards and two touchdowns on just 12 carries.
In 2024, Montgomery had 185 carries for 775 yards and 12 touchdowns, along with 36 receptions.
His first season with the Lions in 2023 saw him rush 219 times for 1,015 yards and 13 touchdowns, plus 16 catches.
However, Montgomery’s usage has dropped significantly this season.
The last time he carried the ball 10 or more times was Nov. 9, 2025, against the Washington Commanders.
Head coach Dan Campbell has yet to find a way to increase his touches, mainly after Montgomery carried the ball four times for 14 yards against the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Montgomery is under contract with Detroit through the 2026 season, with a base salary of $5.49 million.
The Lions could potentially trade him by June 1, 2026, saving $3.5 million in cap space—if Montgomery indeed wants to leave.
With two games left in the regular season, Campbell faces the challenge of not only securing a playoff spot but also reintegrating Montgomery into the offense.
Detroit will face the Minnesota Vikings on Christmas Day at 4:30 p.m. on Netflix. Fans will be watching closely to see how Montgomery is utilized in this crucial matchup.