In the fast-paced world of the NFL, it’s not often that a simple social media post or heartfelt message can stir up as much conversation as the one that Detroit Lions’ running back David Montgomery sent out recently. The “THANK YOU” message, a simple yet powerful sentiment, reverberated across Detroit and the league as a whole, sparking discussions on Montgomery’s time with the Lions, his impact on the team, and what the future holds for both the player and the franchise.
As the 2023 NFL season progresses, the Detroit Lions have been enjoying a resurgence led by head coach Dan Campbell and a talented roster of young and dynamic players. One of the key contributors to the team’s rise has been Montgomery, who signed with the Lions in the offseason after spending several years with the Chicago Bears. His message of gratitude towards Detroit has drawn attention to his journey, his performance, and the undeniable role he has played in the Lions’ success thus far. However, it also raises important questions about his future with the team and how Lions management will respond to his public acknowledgment.
This article explores the meaning behind David Montgomery’s “THANK YOU” message, reflects on his time with the Detroit Lions, examines his impact on the team, and delves into the broader implications of his future in Detroit.
David Montgomery’s Path to Detroit
David Montgomery’s journey to the Detroit Lions began in 2019 when the Chicago Bears selected him in the third round of the NFL Draft. A standout running back at Iowa State, Montgomery entered the league with high expectations. He quickly established himself as one of the toughest and most durable backs in the NFL, known for his ability to grind out tough yards, his vision, and his ability to make defenders miss in tight spaces.
Despite the Bears’ offensive struggles during Montgomery’s tenure, the running back was consistently productive, posting over 1,000 yards from scrimmage in each of his first two seasons. His ability to excel despite the lack of a strong supporting cast earned him respect across the league, making him one of the more underrated running backs during his time in Chicago.
However, after the 2022 season, Montgomery became a free agent. The Bears, in a continued effort to rebuild their team, chose not to re-sign him, opting to pursue younger options in the draft and through free agency. For Montgomery, this meant a fresh start—one that came with an exciting opportunity to join a Detroit Lions team on the rise.
In March 2023, Montgomery signed a three-year, $18 million contract with the Lions. This move was seen as an important one for Detroit, which had struggled to find consistent production at the running back position in recent years. The Lions had already shown promise under head coach Dan Campbell, finishing the 2022 season with a 9-8 record, their best in recent memory, and Montgomery was brought in to provide stability, leadership, and most importantly, a physical presence in the backfield.
The Significance of Montgomery’s “THANK YOU” Message
On a crisp afternoon in early December 2023, David Montgomery took to his social media accounts to send a heartfelt message to the city of Detroit and Lions fans. The post, which simply read “THANK YOU, Detroit,” accompanied a photo of Montgomery in a Lions jersey, hands held high as he celebrated a touchdown in front of a roaring Ford Field crowd.
While the message itself was brief, it spoke volumes about Montgomery’s appreciation for the city, the organization, and the fans who had embraced him in his short time with the team. For a player who had spent his first four years in the NFL in Chicago, a city and fan base that never fully embraced him, the message was one of gratitude for the love and respect he had received in Detroit.
Montgomery’s message also signified a deeper connection with the Lions’ fanbase. In a league where athletes are often perceived as mercenaries—moving from team to team with little emotional attachment—Montgomery’s words were a reminder that, for some players, the relationship with a franchise and its fans is more than just a business transaction. It’s about the opportunity to build something special, to leave a mark on a city, and to represent the community that supports you.
The timing of the message was also significant. Montgomery had been playing at a high level throughout the 2023 season, helping the Lions remain competitive in a tough NFC North division. The team had emerged as one of the NFL’s most promising squads, and Montgomery’s role in that success had not gone unnoticed. As the Lions continued to climb up the ranks of the NFC, Montgomery’s gratitude was a reminder that he recognized the importance of his role in this resurgence.
Montgomery’s Impact on the Detroit Lions
Since joining the Lions, Montgomery has been nothing short of impressive. While he was never known for being the flashiest back, his ability to grind out tough yards and maintain consistency throughout the season has been invaluable for Detroit. His vision, patience, and ability to shed tackles have made him an ideal fit for the Lions’ offense.
In 2023, Montgomery has become the focal point of Detroit’s rushing attack, providing a steady ground game that complements their explosive passing offense led by quarterback Jared Goff. His ability to pick up crucial first downs, especially in short-yardage and goal-line situations, has been a key factor in the Lions’ ability to control the tempo of games and keep opposing defenses on their toes.
Through the first few months of the season, Montgomery has averaged 4.6 yards per carry, rushed for over 1,000 yards, and scored eight touchdowns. These numbers have helped him become one of the top running backs in the league in terms of total yards and rushing touchdowns, solidifying his importance to the Lions’ offense. His physical running style also provides a perfect complement to the quick and dynamic style of backup running back Jahmyr Gibbs, the Lions’ first-round pick in 2023, allowing the team to employ a balanced and multifaceted backfield.
Montgomery’s impact extends beyond the numbers as well. His leadership in the locker room has been praised by coaches and teammates alike. As a seasoned veteran with a no-nonsense approach to the game, Montgomery’s presence has helped guide younger players like Gibbs and fellow running back Craig Reynolds, who benefit from his experience and work ethic.
On the field, Montgomery has also excelled in pass protection, an often-overlooked aspect of a running back’s role. His willingness to stand in front of defenders and protect Goff has been a critical part of the Lions’ offensive success. Additionally, Montgomery’s ability to catch passes out of the backfield has provided another layer of versatility to Detroit’s offense, making them even more difficult to defend.
While it’s clear that Montgomery’s impact has been felt both on and off the field, the question remains: What does this mean for his future with the Lions?
What’s Next for David Montgomery and the Detroit Lions?
David Montgomery’s message to Detroit was not only an expression of thanks but also a signal that he is fully invested in the Lions’ success. However, his gratitude toward the team could also be seen as a reminder of the fleeting nature of professional football. With his contract set to expire after the 2025 season, Montgomery’s future in Detroit remains uncertain, and the Lions management will have some tough decisions to make moving forward.
Contract Situation and Salary Cap Considerations
Montgomery is under contract with the Lions through the 2025 season, with the final year of his deal offering the team an option to extend or restructure the terms. His current deal is financially favorable, but as the Lions’ roster continues to evolve, there will likely be salary cap constraints that will force the team to make difficult decisions regarding their key players. With players like quarterback Jared Goff, wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown, and defensive stars like Aidan Hutchinson on the payroll, the Lions will have to balance their financial commitments in a way that maximizes their roster’s potential.
It’s likely that Lions management will want to keep Montgomery around for the long haul, especially if he continues to perform at a high level. However, this could mean restructuring his deal or offering him a contract extension to ensure that he remains a core part of their offense as they look to build a Super Bowl contender.
The Role of Jahmyr Gibbs in the Rushing Attack
The presence of Jahmyr Gibbs, the Lions’ first-round pick in 2023, will also play a significant role in Montgomery’s future with the team. Gibbs, a dynamic and explosive playmaker, has shown flashes of brilliance as a change-of-pace back and pass-catching option out of the backfield. As Gibbs continues to develop, the Lions may decide to shift more responsibility to him in the coming years, particularly as Montgomery enters the later stages of his career.
This could prompt the Lions to either release or trade Montgomery to another team if they feel that Gibbs is ready to take over the full-time starting role. However, Montgomery’s ability to complement Gibbs with his tough running style and veteran leadership could make it more likely that the two players continue to form a potent tandem for the foreseeable future.
Lions Management’s Response to Montgomery’s Message
The timing of Montgomery’s “THANK YOU” message may have been a strategic one, as it prompted the Lions’ management to reflect on his impact and potential future with the team. His gratitude, coupled with his performance, might inspire the front office to make a push for an extension or to explore ways to keep him in Detroit for the long term.
Additionally, Montgomery’s message to Detroit’s fanbase was a testament to his professionalism and maturity as a player. In a league where many players come and go with little emotional connection to their teams, Montgomery’s public expression of thanks serves as a reminder that he truly values the opportunity to play in Detroit and for the Lions.