Before the start of NFL Free Agency next week, the Detroit Lions have made a trade, sending backup running back David Montgomery to the Houston Texans. According to the breaking news, the Lions are officially moving on from the frustrated running back after it’s been rumored that he wants out due to his role decreasing with the emergence of former fellow teammate Jahmyr Gibbs. While Montgomery got his wish, the Lions still have a noticeable hole in their ground game to help Gibbs, and nobody should be surprised if the team targets a low-stakes backup. There are several options, like Travis Etienne and Isiah Pacheco, but the Panthers’ free agent Rico Dowdle sounds like an efficient replacement after trading away Montgomery.
Lions David Montgomery Trade Could Mean Panthers Rico Dowdle Signing
Dowdle and Montgomery share similar characteristics when it comes to pulverizing defenders and making an effort to move the chains. Carolina is likely to let Dowdle test the market after one season breaking out, while Chuba Hubbard has battled injuries during the 2025 campaign. Originally selected in the 2020 NFL Draft, the undrafted product wants a chance to start, but he shouldn’t be surprised if he’s open to a backup role if it means joining a team like the Lions. Between Jared Goff, Gibbs and wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown, this team is too talented, and if there was a chance for the Lions to talk to Dowdle, there might be a solid opportunity for him to back up Gibbs.
Dowdle has shown frustration towards the end of the 2025 regular season, especially during his usage in the Wild Card matchup against the Los Angeles Rams, which resulted in a close, nail-biting loss. Joining the Lions might serve him well in a position to share the snaps with Gibbs during the 2027 postseason. It wouldn’t be the worst idea for Gibbs to find his new knuckles, and Dowdle could fit the vision of what the Lions might be looking for.
Other Possible Fits
While the Lions seem like a good fit for Dowdle, he’s expected to have a solid market once free agency opens next week. There will be multiple running backs available via free agency and the trade market. Similar to Etienne and Pacheco, Dowdle might have to wait a little longer depending on what teams are looking for.
With that, there are multiple suitors for the South Carolina product. Teams such as the Washington Commanders, Los Angeles Chargers and Dallas Cowboys are potential fits. Dowdle was once turning into a true star ahead of former Cowboy Tony Pollard in his first tenure. Meanwhile, the Chargers aren’t desperate for a starter, but he could create a fit alongside Omarion Hampton, and the Commanders need a replacement quickly to help Jacory Croskey-Merritt, who is still acclimating to the run game.