Open Nav
Show Navigation
Show Menu
FANTASY FOOTBALL NEWS

David Montgomery leads backfield in opener

By Jared Smola | Updated on Fri, Sep 8 2023 3:52 AM UTC
David Montgomery Headshot

Lions RB David Montgomery started Thursday night's opener vs. the Chiefs and operated as the lead back throughout. He played 79% of the offensive snaps and out-carried RB Jahmyr Gibbs 21 to 7, totaling 74 yards and a score. Montgomery wasn't targeted but led the backfield with a 56% route rate. There's no doubt that Gibbs is the more explosive back, but Montgomery's no-nonsense running style is clearly valued by HC Dan Campbell and the Lions. Expect Gibbs' role to grow over the course of the season. But, for now, Montgomery looks like a rock-solid RB2. He gets plus matchups the next two weeks at home for the Seahawks and Falcons.

Jared Smola Author Image
Jared Smola, Lead Analyst
Jared has been with Draft Sharks since 2007. He’s now Lead Analyst, heading up the preseason and weekly projections that fuel your Draft War Room and My Team tools. He currently ranks 1st among 133 analysts in draft rankings accuracy.
2025 Dynasty Rookie Mock Draft: 1-QB

2025 Dynasty Rookie Mock Draft: 1-QB

4:57pm UTC 4/1/25

Ashton Jeanty sits atop our April 2025 dynasty rookie mock draft. Which players join him in Round 1, though? And who else should you target?

Read More »
Premium Content Premium ContentTreVeyon Henderson Dynasty Value
Video: 3 Players to Buy, 3 to Sell in Dynasty Before NFL Draft

Video: 3 Players to Buy, 3 to Sell in Dynasty Before NFL Draft

1:08pm UTC 3/29/25

Nobody likes an old receiver in dynasty. And that's exactly what makes Davante Adams an attractive trade target. We'll talk him and five other guys you should buy or sell.

Read More »
Compare Plans » Compare Plans »