HOUSTON – In a move signaling a shift in offensive strategy, the Houston Texans have acquired running back David Montgomery from the Detroit Lions in exchange for offensive lineman Juice Scruggs and draft picks. The trade, finalized on March 2, 2026, aims to bolster a Texans rushing attack that struggled in the 2025 season, while providing the Lions with added depth on the offensive line and future draft capital.
The Texans will send a fourth-round pick in the 2026 NFL Draft and a seventh-round pick in the 2027 NFL Draft to Detroit, according to reports from NFL Network Insiders Ian Rapoport, Mike Garafolo, and Tom Pelissero. NFL.com detailed the trade terms, highlighting the Texans’ need for a reliable running back.
Montgomery’s Journey to Houston
Montgomery, who joined the Lions in 2023 after four seasons with the Chicago Bears, saw his role diminish in the 2025 season with the emergence of Jahmyr Gibbs as the primary ball carrier. Despite playing in all 17 games for the first time in his career, Montgomery recorded a career-low 716 rushing yards on 158 carries, with eight touchdowns. Gibbs, in contrast, amassed 1,223 rushing yards on 243 carries. ESPN’s coverage of the trade noted Montgomery’s frustration with his reduced workload.
Following the season, reports indicated Montgomery desired a larger role in an offense, prompting the Lions to explore trade options. He expressed his gratitude to Detroit via social media, stating, “Please know this: Everything I do next carries a piece of Detroit with it. The work ethic. The edge. The heart. Thank you for trusting me. Thank you for pushing me. Thank you for walking this chapter with me.”
Texans Seek to Revitalize Running Game
The Houston Texans struggled to establish a consistent running game in 2025, finishing tied for 29th in the league with an average of 3.9 yards per attempt. The team faced challenges with both offensive line performance and inconsistent production from their running back group. Joe Mixon, acquired by the Texans two years prior, missed the entire 2025 season due to a foot injury. League sources anticipate the Texans will release Mixon.
Rookie Woody Marks led the Texans with 703 rushing yards on 196 carries, averaging 3.6 yards per carry. Veteran Nick Chubb, still recovering from a severe 2023 knee injury, contributed 506 yards on 122 carries across 15 games, scoring three touchdowns. The addition of Montgomery is expected to provide a significant boost to the Texans’ ground attack and offer a more reliable option in the backfield.
Juice Scruggs Heads to Detroit
In exchange for Montgomery, the Lions receive offensive lineman Juice Scruggs. Scruggs, drafted by the Texans, provides the Lions with depth and potential along the offensive line. The Lions finished fourth in the NFC North in 2025, and bolstering the offensive line is seen as a key step in continuing to build a competitive team. The draft picks included in the trade offer further flexibility for the Lions in future roster construction.
The trade of Montgomery breaks up what had been playfully dubbed “Sonic and Knuckles” – a reference to the running back duo of Montgomery and Gibbs. The Lions clearly believe Gibbs is the future at the position, and the trade allows them to address needs elsewhere on the roster.
Impact on the AFC South
The acquisition of Montgomery is expected to have a ripple effect within the AFC South. A stronger running game will alleviate pressure on Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud and provide a more balanced offensive attack. This could position the Texans as strong contenders in a division that is increasingly competitive. The Jacksonville Jaguars and Indianapolis Colts are also expected to be in contention for the division title.
Looking Ahead
Montgomery is expected to enter the 2026 season as the primary running back for the Texans. His experience and proven ability to contribute in both the running and passing game should make him a valuable asset to the team. The Texans’ success in 2026 will largely depend on how effectively they can integrate Montgomery into their offensive scheme and improve their offensive line play.
The Detroit Lions, meanwhile, will gaze to utilize the draft capital acquired in the trade to address other areas of need. The team will also be focused on continuing to develop Jahmyr Gibbs as their lead running back and building on the foundation they established in the 2025 season.
The next key date for both teams will be the start of the 2026 NFL Draft, where the Lions will utilize their newly acquired draft picks. Fans can stay updated on official team announcements and further roster moves through the official NFL website: NFL.com.
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