Texans Land David Montgomery in Trade with Lions as Joe Mixon Exit Looms

Houston has reportedly moved quickly to reshape its backfield, acquiring David Montgomery from Detroit as uncertainty continues around Joe Mixon’s future.

According to multiple reports, the Texans are sending offensive lineman Juice Scruggs, a fourth-round pick, and a seventh-round pick to the Lions. Final league processing details: Needs verification.

The move comes after reports that Houston is expected to release Mixon following a 2025 season he missed with a foot injury. With the new league year beginning March 11, the Texans appear to have chosen a trade route instead of waiting on the open market.

Montgomery spent the last three seasons in Detroit after signing in 2023 and later receiving an extension. In 2025, he shared carries with Jahmyr Gibbs and finished with 716 rushing yards and eight touchdowns on 158 attempts.

Houston rotated backs in Mixon’s absence last season, with rookie Woody Marks posting 703 rushing yards and Nick Chubb adding 506. But the Texans’ run game lacked scoring punch, finishing with only nine rushing touchdowns as a team.

Adding Montgomery gives Houston an experienced, physical runner to pair with Marks. The Texans have reached the playoffs in three straight years, and this move signals they are trying to push beyond the Divisional Round in 2026.