David Montgomery, Lions
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David Montgomery of the Detroit Lions scores a touchdown against the Baltimore Ravens.
According to NFL insider Tom Pelissero, the Detroit Lions have traded running back David Montgomery to the Houston Texans for offensive lineman Juice Scruggs, a fourth-round pick and a seventh-round pick in return. Montgomery spent the last three seasons with Detroit, racking up over 2,500 rushing yards and an impressive 33 touchdowns.
Compensation update: The Texans are sending OL Juice Scruggs, a 4th-rounder and a 7th-rounder to Detroit for David Montgomery. https://t.co/EQaSP8sW1e
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) March 2, 2026
His production in the last two seasons was mitigated by the elite speed of Jahmyr Gibbs who split time with Montgomery, but ultimately ended up getting more touches. Montgomery’s final two years on his contract will be transferred to Houston, who is getting a premier running back at a very reasonable $18 million over the next two seasons.
Detroit sheds some salary by moving on from Montgomery, leaving more room for Gibbs on the field and room to spend money on other positions in their lineup.
Scruggs started 13 games for Houston in 2024, but started just one in 2025.