Lions News: National NFL analysts weigh in on David Montgomery trade

The reaction to the news that the Detroit Lions traded David Montgomery to the Houston Texans on Monday was overwhelming.

The fan-favorite running back was traded in exchange for the Texans’ 2026 fourth-round pick and 2027 seventh-round pick, as well as offensive lineman Juice Scruggs.

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Nicknamed “Sonic” and “Knuckles,” Montgomery and Jameer Gibbs were a record-breaking duo until opportunities for the former began to dry up. Our own Ryan Mathews put together some Immediate response on Mondayincluding from heartbroken teammates, but more writers and analysts continued to weigh in overnight.

when you finish reading Jeremy’s Industry and Achievements Breakdownhere is what some NFL analysts have to say about this major move.

Kevin Patera of NFL.com:

“Montgomery is a gritty runner and a dependable plow who can run through arm tackles and consistently fall forward. He also has the ability as a receiver. Montgomery should help immediately in the red zone. … The pairing of Montgomery and (Woody) Marks can generate a one-two punch out of the backfield.”

CBS Sports’ Tyler Sullivan:

“It makes sense to give up a player whose role will only get smaller in the offense. Montgomery also has no guaranteed money left on his contract, so he will likely seek a modified contract, which is also a smart financial move for the Lions. They avoid having to spend money on a running back entering his age-29 season.”

Frank Schwab of Yahoo Sports:

“Scruggs, a former second-round pick who made 20 starts in three seasons but was unable to break into the Texans’ starting lineup last season, is expendable. He would add depth at linebacker and would be nearly free for the Lions since draft compensation was the key to the deal. … Montgomery is an effective player in his role and he won’t be easily replaced. This seems like a good deal for the Lions, but let’s see how they plan to replace Montgomery.”

Michael Middlehurst-Schwartz, USA Today:

“(Brad) Holmes has more resources to find Day 2 and Day 3 gems in the draft, and 2023 second-round pick Scruggs is a nice depth option for a team forced to rethink its front line.

Bleacher Report’s Christopher Knox:

“While Jameer Gibbs has proven he can handle a massive workload, Montgomery remains one of the best change-of-pace and short-yardage backs in the league. Still, Detroit should be able to find a solid addition to Gibbs in free agency or the draft. The new RB2 backfield may not be as effective, but it should remain functional with Gibbs leading the rotation. The Lions are getting solid compensation in exchange for Montgomery, plus Juice Scruggs’ young linemen, a 2023 second-round pick with 20 starts on his resume, should compete for playing time inside.”

and the rest of your notes.

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• Some beat reporters posted their favorite Montgomery moments.