The Detroit Lions made a move this offseason that caught many fans by surprise when they decided to trade veteran running back David Montgomery. While roster moves are part of the business side of the NFL, that doesn’t mean they don’t hit hard inside the locker room.
One player who didn’t hide his feelings about the move was star wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown.
St. Brown reportedly had an emotional reaction after learning that Montgomery would no longer be part of the team. The two players had built a strong bond during their time together in Detroit, helping lead one of the league’s most balanced offenses. Montgomery’s physical running style paired perfectly with the explosive playmaking ability of fellow running back Jahmyr Gibbs, making the Lions’ backfield a nightmare for opposing defenses.
Montgomery wasn’t just productive on the field — he was also respected in the locker room. His toughness and leadership made him a key presence in Detroit’s culture as the team continued its rise as a contender in the NFC.
For St. Brown, who has become one of the emotional leaders of the offense, seeing a teammate like Montgomery depart clearly carried some weight. His reaction shows just how close many players on the roster have become during the Lions’ recent success.
Still, the NFL is ultimately a business, and the Lions will now look ahead with Gibbs expected to play an even larger role in the offense. Detroit’s front office continues shaping the roster with the goal of keeping the team competitive for years to come.
Even so, Montgomery’s time in Detroit left a lasting impression — not just on fans, but on teammates like St. Brown who appreciated everything he brought to the team.
“That One Hurt” — Amon-Ra St. Brown Reacts Emotionally to Lions Trading David Montgomery
