Veteran Star Willing to Restructure as Salary-Cap Pressure Mounts in Detroit
Detroit – As the salary-cap equation continues to tighten, David Montgomery has sent a clear message about his future with the Detroit Lions. The veteran running back has made it known that he is open to restructuring his deal to remain in Detroit, even as the organization reassesses its long-term priorities ahead of the 2026 season.
According to internal league sources, the Lions are weighing the possibility of moving on from Montgomery this offseason, not because of declining performance, but due to salary-cap pressure and roster construction strategy. Detroit has significant financial decisions looming, particularly with young cornerstone players approaching extension windows, forcing the front office to explore cost-saving options.
Even so, Montgomery’s response has caught many by surprise. Rather than shutting the door on his time in Detroit, he has emphasized his desire to stay with the Lions and his willingness to adjust his contract if it helps the team remain competitive. For Montgomery, the conversation is not centered on maximizing earnings, but on belief in what Detroit is building.
“If this is about football and where this team is going, I can live with that,” Montgomery said. “I still have unfinished business here. I want to keep fighting for Detroit and chase a Super Bowl with the guys in this locker room.” His words reflect a team-first mindset that resonates strongly inside the organization.
At 28 years old, Montgomery remains a critical part of one of the NFL’s most productive backfields. Alongside Jahmyr Gibbs, he has helped anchor Detroit’s offense for multiple seasons, providing physicality, reliability, and leadership that go beyond box-score production. His presence has been especially valuable in high-leverage situations and short-yardage roles.
Now, the Lions face a difficult balancing act: preserving financial flexibility while maintaining roster continuity. Montgomery’s openness to compromise adds nuance to the decision, but the numbers remain tight. Detroit must determine whether restructuring a veteran contract aligns with its long-term vision or if resources must be redirected elsewhere.
As free agency approaches, David Montgomery’s situation has evolved into more than a routine cap discussion. It has become a measure of how the Lions handle proven veterans who embody the team’s identity — players willing to sacrifice for the jersey, the city, and the shared goal of bringing a Lombardi Trophy to Detroit.
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