Lions Trade RB David Montgomery to Texans for Draft Picks and Offensive Lineman

The Detroit Lions have traded running back David Montgomery to the Houston Texans in exchange for a fourth-round pick, a seventh-round pick, and offensive lineman Juice Scruggs, multiple reports confirm.¹² The trade was officially announced on March 2, 2026.¹

Texans Bolster Backfield with Prolific Rusher

Montgomery, who rushed for 2,506 yards and 33 touchdowns in three seasons with the Lions,¹ joins a Texans team looking to strengthen their running game. He formed a dynamic partnership with Jahmyr Gibbs in Detroit.¹²

Lions Prioritize Offensive Line and Future Flexibility

In return for Montgomery, the Lions receive offensive lineman Juice Scruggs, along with a fourth and seventh-round draft pick.¹ This move allows the Lions to focus on building around running back Jahmyr Gibbs, who has rushed for 3,580 yards and 39 touchdowns in three seasons and has been named to the Pro Bowl in each of those years.¹ Detroit reached the NFC Championship Game in 2023 and the Divisional Round in 2024.¹

Texans’ Recent Transactions

The Texans were active earlier in the week, trading offensive lineman Tytus Howard to the Cleveland Browns for a fifth-round pick.¹

Preseason Performance

Prior to the trade, rookie wide receiver Isaac TeSlaa scored Detroit’s only touchdown in a 26-7 preseason loss to the Texans on August 23, 2025, with a 33-yard reception from quarterback Kyle Allen.³