Texans Trade for Montgomery
The Houston Texans acquired RB David Montgomery from the Detroit Lions, breaking up the Gibbs-Montgomery backfield that fantasy owners relied on. Montgomery likely becomes Houston's lead back while Jahmyr Gibbs may see increased workload for Detroit. This trade significantly impacts 2026 fantasy football outlooks for both teams' running game.
The Houston Texans sent offensive lineman Juice Scruggs, a 2026 fourth-round pick, and a 2027 seventh-round selection to the Detroit Lions in exchange for running back David Montgomery. This move signals Houston's intent to bolster a rushing attack that ranked 22nd in the league in 2025 with 108.9 yards per game. Montgomery's role in Detroit had diminished with the rise of Jahmyr Gibbs. In 2025, Montgomery saw a career-low 158 carries for 716 yards and eight touchdowns, while Gibbs handled 243 carries for 1,223 yards and 18 scores. The trade frees up over $3.5 million in cap space for the Lions. The Texans' leading rusher in 2025 was rookie Woody Marks, who accumulated 703 yards. The team struggled to find consistency in the run game, especially after presumptive starter Joe Mixon missed the entire season with an injury. Montgomery is expected to step in as the lead back for Houston. This trade officially breaks up the "Sonic & Knuckles" backfield duo in Detroit, a combination that set an NFL record for the most games with a touchdown by a running back pair. For the Lions, this move solidifies Jahmyr Gibbs' status as the undisputed lead back as he enters his fourth season.
