The NFL offseason is picking up as trade rumors, cap casualties, and other moves grow. The new league year is right around the corner, and offseason transactions will soon become official.
Earlier today, it was reported that Detroit Lions running back David Montgomery has requested a trade. The expected compensation was also reported to be that the Lions will seek a day-three pick.
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It appears there might be some confusion and uncertainty around this report. Montgomery responded Sunday morning to these reports.
If there’s one thing that will get players to respond, it’s trade rumors when they may not want to be traded. Montgomery appears to address this as not the most accurate report.
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It’s not unreasonable to expect the Lions to explore trading Montgomery. His skills are coveted across the league, and the rise of Jahmyr Gibbs makes things tight in the backfield.
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If there was a trade, the Lions probably expect something better than a day-three pick. His contract makes his trading very easy for both sides of a deal.
Jan 4, 2026; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Detroit Lions running back David Montgomery (5) runs with the ball against Chicago Bears cornerback Nahshon Wright (26) during the second half at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Matt Marton-Imagn Images
However, head coach Dan Campbell loves the “Sonic and Knuckles” duo of Montgomery and Gibbs. The Lions have explored trades to bolster their defense–making a sale of one of their top backs questionable at best.
The new league year begins on March 11th, and Montgomery’s 2026 salary becomes guaranteed after March 13th.
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