Lions Star David Montgomery Responds to Trade Rumors with Sarcasm

The veteran running back denies any desire to leave Detroit's high-powered offense.

Apr. 12, 2026 at 1:03pm

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A fractured, multi-perspective painting depicting a Detroit Lions running play, with the players and field broken down into sharp, overlapping geometric planes in a cubist style.A cubist interpretation of the dynamic duo in the Detroit Lions' backfield, with Montgomery and Gibbs breaking through the defense in a flurry of geometric shapes and colors.Minneapolis Today

Detroit Lions running back David Montgomery fired back with sarcasm after a report suggested he might be seeking a departure from the organization. Montgomery, who has been a valued contributor in the Lions' potent offense, is under contract through 2027. The 28-year-old took to social media to dismiss the trade rumors, replying, 'Damn, [D-Mo] told you that?' Montgomery's teammate, Jahmyr Gibbs, has emerged as the team's primary back, but Montgomery remains an important part of the backfield rotation.

Why it matters

The Lions' backfield has been a strength of the team in recent seasons, with Montgomery and Gibbs forming a dynamic duo. Any potential trade of Montgomery could disrupt the team's offensive chemistry and depth at the position, especially as the Lions look to build on their success and make a deep playoff run.

The details

Montgomery joined the Lions in 2023 after spending his first four NFL seasons with the Chicago Bears. He has been a reliable short-yardage back, posting 716 rushing yards and eight rushing touchdowns in 2025, along with 24 receptions for 192 yards. Gibbs, the Lions' first-round pick in 2023, has emerged as the team's primary back, leading the league in rushing yards (1,412) and rushing touchdowns (16) in 2024 and following that up with 1,223 rushing yards, 13 rushing scores, 616 receiving yards, and five receiving touchdowns in 2025.

  • On April 12, 2026, a report surfaced suggesting Montgomery might be seeking a trade from the Lions.
  • Montgomery responded to the report with sarcasm on social media on the same day.

The players

David Montgomery

A 28-year-old running back who has been a valuable contributor to the Detroit Lions' offense since joining the team in 2023 after four seasons with the Chicago Bears.

Jahmyr Gibbs

The Detroit Lions' first-round pick in 2023, who has emerged as the team's primary running back, leading the league in rushing yards and rushing touchdowns in recent seasons.

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What they’re saying

“Damn, [D-Mo] told you that?”

— David Montgomery, Detroit Lions Running Back

What’s next

The Lions will need to manage their salary cap situation, as Montgomery carries an $8.3 million cap hit for the 2026 season. The team may need to make decisions about the long-term futures of both Montgomery and Gibbs in the backfield.

The takeaway

Despite the emergence of Jahmyr Gibbs as the Lions' primary running back, David Montgomery remains a valued contributor to the team's high-powered offense. The veteran's sarcastic response to trade rumors suggests he is content in his role and committed to helping the Lions continue their success.