David Montgomery has truly been a game-changer for the Lions since joining the team as a free agent from Chicago in 2023. His unique running style, characterized by short-area quickness and physicality, perfectly complements Jahmyr Gibbs’ explosiveness and speed, making them the most formidable running back duo in the NFL.
Montgomery’s impact on the Lions’ offense cannot be overstated. He embodies the team’s identity and sets the tone with his hard-nosed running style. His ability to break tackles and churn his legs has earned him recognition, including the prestigious Angry Runs scepter from Good Morning Football for his performance against Seattle in Week 4.
Lions head coach Dan Campbell is effusive in his praise for Montgomery, likening him to the running back legends of yesteryears, such as Walter Payton and Earl Campbell. Campbell admires Montgomery’s downhill running style, relentlessness, and refusal to go down easily, drawing parallels to the greats of the game.
What sets Montgomery apart is his consistency in finding the end zone. He has scored a rushing touchdown in eight out of the ten games he’s played this season, maintaining an impressive streak since joining the Lions. His ability to consistently find the end zone has made him one of the most prolific touchdown scorers in the league.
Montgomery’s impact goes beyond his individual accolades. He has earned the admiration of his teammates, especially the offensive line, who find inspiration in blocking for him. Montgomery’s presence on the field motivates everyone around him to elevate their game, creating a culture of hard work and determination within the team.
Nicknamed “Knuckles” for his physical playing style, Montgomery embodies the essence of old-school football. He relishes contact and excels in delivering blows to defenders, showcasing a rare blend of strength, toughness, and agility. His partnership with Gibbs in the backfield has been instrumental in the Lions’ success running the ball, as they consistently average over 150 yards per game.
Overall, Montgomery’s impact on the Lions transcends statistics. He symbolizes the team’s commitment to physicality and resilience, embodying the spirit of Detroit football. As Coach Campbell aptly puts it, Montgomery’s addition to the team has been nothing short of spectacular, fitting seamlessly into the Lions’ ethos and contributing significantly to their success on the field.
