Why is David Montgomery's role reduced with the Detroit Lions?

Coach Dan Campbell indicated the offense operates better with Montgomery involved, and they are exploring ways to increase his touches amidst a shift in the backfield dynamic.

How is the Lions' running back dynamic changing in 2025?

Jahmyr Gibbs has become the primary starter, with David Montgomery seeing a significant decrease in carries and overall usage compared to last season.

What is Dan Campbell's plan for David Montgomery?

Campbell is brainstorming ways to involve Montgomery more, possibly by altering series rotations and getting him touches earlier in Jahmyr Gibbs's series.

Home / Sports / Lions Coach Campbell Addresses Montgomery's Reduced Role

Lions Coach Campbell Addresses Montgomery's Reduced Role

18 Dec

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Summary

Montgomery's carries and yards per game have significantly decreased.
Coach Campbell acknowledges the offense performs better with Montgomery involved.
The Lions are exploring ways to increase Montgomery's touches in games.

Lions Coach Campbell Addresses Montgomery's Reduced Role

Detroit Lions coach Dan Campbell has addressed the noticeable decrease in veteran running back David Montgomery's workload during the 2025 season. Campbell commended Montgomery's professionalism amid what is likely a frustrating situation for the player. The coach admitted that the Lions' offense operates more effectively when Montgomery is integrated into the game plan, indicating a desire to find ways to boost his involvement.

Campbell revealed ongoing efforts to increase Montgomery's production, noting that the team has experimented with two-running back sets due to injuries. He publicly considered deviating from the usual practice of featuring one running back per series. The coach is contemplating introducing Montgomery earlier within Jahmyr Gibbs's usual series to provide breaks and get him touches.

This strategic reevaluation comes as the Lions face their final three games of the season. The evolving dynamic between Gibbs and Montgomery has seen Montgomery averaging fewer attempts, yards, and receptions compared to the previous year. Despite the shift, Campbell emphasized that Montgomery remains a key consideration for the team's offensive strategy.