At the Detroit Lions’ training camp launch, head coach Dan Campbell emphasized that veteran running back David Montgomery remains a vital piece of Detroit’s powerhouse ground assault—even after intermittent injuries in 2024. With rookie sensation Jahmyr Gibbs earning national attention, Montgomery feared his role might fade, but Campbell was quick to set the record straight.
“Believe me: he is not forgotten,” Campbell asserted, describing the backfield tandem of Montgomery and Gibbs as “special” and “rare in this league” . Signifying more than just a nod, it’s a reaffirmation of Montgomery’s hard-earned place in the offense.
Montgomery, entering training camp with a renewed chip on his shoulder, echoed a sentiments of hunger: “Everybody’s tired of being close… This is the year of reckoning” . After near-miss playoff runs, he’s determined to anchor the backfield and propel the Lions past their recent postseason pent.
Campbell’s remarks align with the numbers: Detroit led the NFL in rushing last year, topping 2,488 yards and 26 touchdowns, thanks in large part to their RB duo . With a new offensive coordinator instilling a run-first identity and new line starters to be tested, Montgomery’s experience and grit are more valuable than ever .
As training camp progresses, expect Montgomery to remain a featured weapon—trusted by coaches, embraced by teammates, and still hungry to finish Detroit’s Super Bowl quest.