Texans acquire RB David Montgomery in trade with Lions: Trade details

The Houston Texans are trading for a potential starting running back ahead of 2026 NFL free agency.

The Texans are acquiring running back David Montgomery from the Detroit Lions, according to NFL Media’s Ian Rapoport. The Lions will acquire offensive lineman Juice Scruggs, a fourth-round pick and a seventh-round pick in exchange for the 28-year-old’s services.

The trade comes just a day after Montgomery took to social media to address trade rumors surrounding him.

Montgomery has spent the last three seasons with the Lions after beginning his career with the Chicago Bears. In Detroit, has worked in combination with Jahmyr Gibbs – serving as the bruising back in the “Sonic and Knuckles” backfield – but has slowly seen his carry share dip as Gibbs’ star has risen.

Montgomery handled a career-low 158 rushing attemps last season and failed to make a start while playing second-fiddle to Gibbs. The Iowa State product was still effective despite his decreased workload, generating 716 rushing yards, eight touchdowns and a more-than-respectable 4.5 yards per carry.

Montgomery will immediately top the Texans’ running back depth chart. He will work in tandem with 2025 fourth-round pick Woody Marks – who generated 911 scrimmage yards a rookie but averaged just but his 3.6 yards per carry average – while Houston will likely move on from Joe Mixon after the veteran missed the entire 2025 NFL season due to a foot injury.

Here’s what to know about the trade: