The Detroit Lions have agreed to trade veteran running back David Montgomery to the Houston Texans, according to Ian Rapoport of NFL Network. The blockbuster move officially ends the celebrated "Sonic and Knuckles" backfield partnership in Detroit, effectively handing the starting reins to third-year star Jahmyr Gibbs.
In exchange for Montgomery, the Lions receive offensive lineman Juice Scruggs, a 2026 fourth-round draft pick, and a 2027 seventh-round selection. Montgomery, who rushed for 716 yards and eight touchdowns last season, saw his snap share decline significantly toward the end of the 2025 campaign as the team transitioned toward a more Gibbs-centric offensive philosophy.
Jahmyr Gibbs weighed in on the news via social media shortly after the trade was reported, reacting to the departure of his longtime backfield partner. Gibbs is coming off a historic opening to his NFL career, having recently surpassed Barry Sanders for the most total touchdowns scored by a player in their first three professional seasons. With Montgomery heading to Houston, Gibbs is poised for a massive increase in volume as the undisputed RB1 in Detroit's high-powered offense.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
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