The Detroit Lions' loss in the offensive backfield could work in the Kansas City Chiefs' favor.
On Thursday, ESPN's Eric Woodyard dropped a bombshell on Lions running back David Montgomery, relaying that "GM Brad Holmes called it a tough year for RB David Montgomery with the lack of touches. They'll have discussions with what's best going forward for his career -- either in Detroit or elsewhere."
Holmes said of Montgomery that "He deserves to be in a situation where his skillset can be utilized." That sounds as solid a confirmation that the RB2 will be anywhere but the Motor City at the start of the 2026 season as a GM would be willing to offer.
Luckily, the Chiefs have a distinct need at the position. A somewhat dire one, in fact. Few would balk at Isiah Pacheco and Kareem Hunt finding a new home this offseason, while Montgomery will almost certainly be open to a place where he won't be in Jahmyr Gibbs' shadow. Montgomery's carries and rushing yardage went down in 2025, while his targets and receiving yardage fell off a cliff.
Gibbs also needs an expanded role. Having two starting-caliber RBs only works on your roster for so long. Eventually, one will want to make the most of the short window given at one of the most unforgiving positions on the field.
For Montgomery, who's about to turn 29 years old, the time is now to find one last chance for a life-changing payday.
Kansas City is the perfect landing spot.
Chiefs Have to Find New Offensive Identity
There isn't a QB1-quality presence currently on the Chiefs' roster that will be healthy and ready to play in Week 1 of the 2026 season. Patrick Mahomes is set to be out for the year after an ACL tear in Week 15 against the Los Angeles Chargers. Gardner Minshew suffered a non-displaced tibial plateau fracture, while Chris Oladokun undid any goodwill he had during a Week 18 loss to the Las Vegas Raiders. Maybe there's something with Shane Buechele, but he's an unproven commodity to say the least.
Whether Buechele or a stop-gap free agent takes the reins, Montgomery would have a chance to step in and get major reps off the bat. Brashard Smith may be RB1 next year, but the gap wouldn't be as severe as it is in Detroit with Gibbs.
Kansas City shouldn't overpay for a season that may not have a Super Bowl ceiling in 2026. With that being said, for the right price, Montgomery is the perfect get for the Kingdom to feel excited about after the depressing ending to the 2025 campaign.