The Houston Texans are shaking up their offense ahead of the 2026 NFL season by acquiring running back David Montgomery in a deal that signals the franchise’s intention to strengthen one of its most inconsistent units. The move comes as the team prepares for free agency and begins shaping what it hopes will be a more balanced and explosive attack.
The trade, confirmed by multiple league sources, sends Montgomery from the Detroit Lions to Houston in exchange for offensive lineman Juice Scruggs along with a fourth-round pick and a seventh-round pick. The agreement positions Montgomery as the immediate frontrunner to lead Houston’s backfield while opening a new chapter in his seven-year career.
A veteran presence with proven production
Montgomery arrives with a résumé that includes years of steady production, toughness and reliability. After beginning his NFL career with the Chicago Bears, he spent the last three seasons in Detroit, where he became part of a dynamic pairing with Jahmyr Gibbs. The duo — known for their contrasting styles — allowed Montgomery to take on the physical, inside-the-tackle role while Gibbs thrived as the explosive change-of-pace option.
Even with his usage trending down in 2025, Montgomery continued to deliver. In that season, he recorded 716 rushing yards, eight touchdowns and averaged 4.5 yards per carry. It marked a career low in attempts after handling only 158 carries, but his efficiency never dropped. That consistency appealed to Houston as the team sought stability in a run game that struggled with both production and health.
Why Houston made the move
For the Texans, the deal addresses two major needs: reinforcing a depleted backfield and adding an experienced runner who can anchor early downs. Montgomery now steps into a room that includes 2025 draft pick Woody Marks, who showed flashes as a rookie but still averaged just 3.6 yards per carry. With Montgomery in front, Marks can settle into a complementary role that better suits his speed and versatility.
The move also suggests the Texans are prepared to move on from Joe Mixon after he missed the entire 2025 season with a foot injury. With Montgomery’s arrival, the team gains a durable option capable of handling a starter’s workload while bringing leadership to a young offense.
Detroit’s motivation for the trade
For Detroit, the decision to part ways with Montgomery reflects confidence in Gibbs’ long-term development and a desire to reallocate resources. The Lions receive Scruggs, a young offensive lineman with developmental upside, along with two draft picks that expand their flexibility ahead of April’s draft. It also provides Gibbs a full runway to take over the backfield without a shared role.
The timing comes shortly after Montgomery addressed swirling trade speculation online, indicating he was aware that his tenure in Detroit may be nearing an end. With this move finalized, both the Lions and Montgomery begin new chapters that align more closely with their evolving needs.
What this means for the Texans moving forward
Montgomery’s addition immediately lifts expectations for Houston’s offense as it enters a critical season. With a back who can generate yards after contact, convert tough downs and bring playoff experience, the Texans gain renewed stability. As the team prepares for free agency and the draft, the front office can now shift its focus to building around a running back group with defined roles and fresh momentum.
The trade signals a team intent on sharpening its identity, balancing its offense and creating opportunities for growth on the ground. Montgomery, still only 28, arrives with the chance to revive his role as a full-time starter and help guide Houston into a decisive phase of its development.
Source: USA TODAY
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