By Blessing 
The dynamic duo of Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery, affectionately known as “Sonic and Knuckles,” has once again solidified their spot as one of the top running back pairs in the NFL.
When the Detroit Lions revamped their running back room in the 2023 offseason, they brought in Montgomery to replace Jamaal Williams and drafted Gibbs 12th overall. This move sparked speculation about D’Andre Swift’s future with the team.
In their first season together, Gibbs and Montgomery came close to achieving a rare feat – rushing for 1,000 yards each in the same season. Gibbs fell just short, missing the mark by 55 yards. Last year, they were on track to accomplish this before Montgomery’s season was cut short due to injury.
Despite Montgomery’s absence, the duo’s chemistry and work-sharing approach have been key to their success. Gibbs brings the explosive plays, earning him the “Sonic” nickname, while Montgomery provides a more traditional, workhorse-style approach, fitting his “Knuckles” moniker.
Both players have consistently performed well, with over 1,100 yards from scrimmage in each of their two seasons together. This impressive feat speaks to their unique partnership and adaptability on the field.
According to Bleacher Report’s ranking, Gibbs and Montgomery are the clear-cut number one running back duo in the league. As writer Moe Moton notes, “Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery have been a highly productive pair for consecutive seasons. So, they’re the clear-cut No. 1 running back duo with distinctive numbers.”
Moton highlights their achievements, saying, “They have eclipsed 1,115 yards and scored double-digit touchdowns in their seasons together. Gibbs is a home-run playmaker with two Pro Bowl seasons in as many years. Montgomery doesn’t have those accolades, but he has two 1,000-plus rushing yard campaigns and has caught 207 passes for 1,698 yards and four touchdowns.”
With their talent and teamwork, it’s only a matter of time before Gibbs and Montgomery achieve that elusive double 1,000-yard rushing season.