The Detroit Lions continue their upward trajectory by securing running back David Montgomery with a two-year, $18.25 million extension just in time for their anticipated Week 6 face-off with the Dallas Cowboys. Montgomery, who signed a three-year, $18 million deal with the Lions in 2023 after leaving the Chicago Bears in free agency, has been a critical part of Detroit’s resurgence. His new extension highlights the Lions’ commitment to building a powerhouse offense.
Montgomery has been an instant hit in Detroit, rushing for over 1,000 yards and scoring 13 touchdowns last season, with an impressive postseason performance that helped propel the Lions to the NFC Championship Game. This year, Montgomery has maintained his momentum, contributing 271 rushing yards, four touchdowns, and a game-changing 40-yard reception against the Seahawks in Week 4. Alongside rookie Jahmyr Gibbs, Montgomery forms the formidable “Sonic and Knuckles” backfield duo, a pairing that ranks both backs in the league’s top 20 rushing leaders.
With his new contract, Montgomery now ranks as the NFL’s seventh-highest-paid running back by average annual salary. Fans have shown overwhelming support for the extension, praising his dedication and hard-nosed playing style. However, some have hinted that Montgomery’s deal is on the modest side, though many respect him for accepting a fair offer to stay with a contender.
The Lions, currently holding a strong 3-1 record, are positioned as a solid Super Bowl contender thanks to their depth and offensive firepower led by quarterback Jared Goff. Detroit’s upcoming Sunday Night Football matchup against the Cowboys will serve as a benchmark game as the Lions aim to maintain their winning momentum and rewrite last year’s near-miss storylines into a championship pursuit.
