David Montgomery, the dynamic running back for the Detroit Lions, has been making waves in the NFL with his relentless work ethic and impressive performance on the field. Born in Cincinnati, Ohio, Montgomery's journey to the top began at Mount Healthy High School, where he had a prolific high school career despite being recruited by only a few colleges.
Montgomery eventually landed at Iowa State, where he had a standout college career. He led the Cyclones in rushing yards and yards from scrimmage, and his 2017 season was particularly notable, with 1,095 rushing yards and 1,383 yards from scrimmage. He also set a record for forced missed tackles, highlighting his ability to break through defenses.
NFL Career
Drafted by the Chicago Bears in the third round of the 2019 NFL Draft, Montgomery quickly established himself as a key player. His rookie season saw him accumulate over 1,000 yards from scrimmage and score seven touchdowns, although he averaged just 3.7 yards per carry. However, his second season with the Bears was more promising, especially after the team's bye in Week 11, where he racked up 598 yards and seven touchdowns over six games.
Despite a less productive 2021 season due to injuries and team issues, Montgomery's career took a significant turn when he signed a three-year, $18 million contract with the Detroit Lions in 2023. Paired with rookie Jahmyr Gibbs, Montgomery formed one of the most successful running back duos in the NFL, with both players combining for over 1,000 yards from scrimmage and 10 touchdowns each.
Success with the Detroit Lions
In his first season with the Lions, Montgomery contributed significantly, ranking No. 9 in rushing yards and No. 15 in total carries. He scored 13 rushing touchdowns, tying for third-most among running backs, and his ability to convert carries into first downs or touchdowns was among the best in the league. The strong offensive line of the Lions played a crucial role in his success, allowing him to shine in 2023.
Montgomery and Gibbs are etching their names in Lions history books together, with their duo becoming the first pair of players in NFL history to achieve such feats. Montgomery's performance has been consistent, making him a reliable fantasy starter due to his high touchdown totals, even though his cumulative and rate stats as a receiver have declined since joining the Lions.
Looking Ahead to 2024
As the 2024 season approaches, Montgomery is poised to remain a crucial part of the Lions' offense. With one of the most talented offenses in the NFL, the Lions are expected to continue producing strong fantasy numbers, and Montgomery's role as an early-down back is likely to remain pivotal. His ability to convert carries into meaningful gains and his knack for scoring touchdowns make him a valuable asset for both the Lions and fantasy football enthusiasts.
