It seems the Kansas City Chiefs have a surprise option when it comes to offseason targets to fill their starting running back position. The Detroit Lions and David Montgomery seem increasingly likely to break up after what was an inconsistent season of usage for the productive back. Montgomery made the most of his chances, averaging 4.5 yards per carry despite often being used in obvious running situations. Leading us to look at a recent comment made by Detroit GM Brad Holmes, provided by the Detroit Free Press.
Respected Detroit Lions Podcast host Jeff Risdon reacted to the comments of Holmes, offering, "That is as about as much of a bombshell admission from Brad Holmes as you're going to get from a press conference like this. That really grabbed my attention, and it should have grabbed yours, too." This is a jarring statement from a Detroit voice, one that is pointing to the opportunity that lies in front of the Chiefs when it comes to solving their rushing concerns in the 2026 offseason.
A potential trade for Montgomery is unlikely to cost the Chiefs much and leaves the door open to further additions. Kansas City could opt to either bring in another option to form a two-headed attack or rely on Montgomery to start and hope that Brashard Smith is able to take the next step in the 2026 season. The young back is a speed and receiving option that balances out Montgomery's downhill, more punishing style.
Chiefs Could Find Surprise Backfield Fit as David Montgomery and Lions Heading for Divorce
Moves are going to need to be made with both Isiah Pacheco and Kareem Hunt scheduled to hit free agency in the 2026 offseason. It is incredibly unlikely that Pacheco will return, and if Hunt is re-signed, it will be in a lesser role. With this in mind, Montgomery could be a great early offseason answer that takes pressure off the KC front office and allows them to look at the position with an open mind.
For Kansas City, it is vital that you add a starter not only due to the needed balance to the offense, but to take a burden off Patrick Mahomes. Coming off the first season-ending injury of his career, the quarterback cannot be expected to scramble and play at the same level early in the season.
Having Montgomery in the backfield offers a stabilizing force you can simply turn and hand the ball to with a high level of consistency and expect results. This was evidenced by the 716 rushing yards and 24 receptions in the 2025 season despite not being utilized as often as in seasons past.
Montgomery is a name to keep a close eye on, as it appears the Lions are getting ready to part ways with the back, and the Chiefs are dealing with an urgent backfield issue that must be quickly addressed.