After a personal slump, Lions superstar RB David Montgomery publicly expressed his desire for head coach Dan Campbell to hand his opportunity to his younger teammate

 Detroit, Michigan – November 19, 2025

At a time when the Detroit Lions are struggling with their ground game, superstar running back David Montgomery stunned the NFL world by publicly asking head coach Dan Campbell to give more playing opportunities to his younger teammate Jahmyr Gibbs. Montgomery openly admitted that his recent form has fallen short of expectations while stressing that what the team needs right now is the player who can make the most consistent difference on the field.

From the start of the season through Week 11, Montgomery began strongly with 5 touchdowns and an average of over 5 yards per carry, but a minor groin injury and three fumbles have dropped his efficiency to 3.8 YPC. The Eagles game laid bare this stagnation as he managed only 42 yards against Philadelphia’s iron-clad defense. In that context, Montgomery believes the Lions need the explosiveness from the younger, more energetic teammate.

Jahmyr Gibbs, born in 2002, 5-foot-9, 202 pounds, has become the biggest bright spot in the Lions’ backfield in 2025. Leading the team with over 732 yards and 8 TDs while averaging 5.2 yards per carry, Gibbs is proving why he earned back-to-back Pro Bowl selections. Although he also struggled against the Eagles with just 39 yards on 12 carries, Gibbs is still regarded as the spearhead Detroit can build its offense around moving forward.

In his post-practice remarks, Montgomery spoke about personal accountability and the decision to step aside: “I’m not dodging anything that’s happened. I owe this team to get better, and I won’t let a tough personal stretch hurt the team. If giving more opportunities to Gibbs makes us stronger, I’m ready to step back so he can shine.” These heartfelt words spread like wildfire throughout the Lions community.

With the unity and individual responsibility Montgomery displayed, Lions Nation is calling this one of the most respectable moments of the entire season. As Detroit races toward the playoffs, the combination of Montgomery’s experience and Gibbs’ youthful explosiveness could become the catalyst that reignites the Lions’ offense. The Motor City team knows that actions like these don’t just build a strong locker room — they define the Lions’ identity for years to come.