Detroit Lions free agency preview: Top RBs to replace David Montgomery

The outlook of the Detroit Lions’ offseason has significantly changed this week with the trading of David Montgomery. While the move was not entirely unexpected, it does leave the Lions with another significant need moving forward. Thankfully, the free agency pool has some options for Detroit, and they could come relatively cheap—even if the Lions aren’t likely to get a player at Montgomery’s level.

Here’s our breakdown of the NFL free agency pool at running back, and the best fits for the Lions.

While the Lions have no free agents, the trading of David Montgomery obviously leaves a significant hole at the RB2 spot. There’s always a chance the Lions believe Vaki could take over that role, but there have been no actual indications the team would trust him with such a significant promotion. Over the last two years, Montgomery averaged over 11 carries per game. Vaki only has seven career rushes over two seasons.

In short, I believe the Lions will very much be in the market for at least a short-term solution to their RB2 vacancy.

Top free agent RBs available:

I don’t think it makes much sense for the Lions to get involved in the high-market players in free agency. While the Lions proved they believe the RB2 role is worth an investment by giving Montgomery the two-year, $18.25 million extension in 2024, with Jahmyr Gibbs’ extension coming up, it seems highly unlikely Detroit would be willing to spend anywhere close to $10 million a year on a backup. Gibbs’ role has only been expanding, which means Detroit should only be spending modest money on the secondary role.

I actually think this is a relatively good free agency group to need a bruising back on a short-term deal.

If the Lions want to invest significantly, Allgeier may be their best option. It would be a bit ironic for Allgeier to move from Bijan Robinson’s backup—Gibbs’ draft-mate—to Gibbs’ backup, and it’s entirely possible he wouldn’t come to Detroit because he’s seeking a bigger role. But his fit with the Lions would be tough to deny considering Allgeier’s strong production as a physical back. He’ll also just be 26 next season, so he could be more of a long-term option.

If Detroit is just looking for a short-term solution while keeping their options open in the draft, there are still plenty of veteran options that could work.