The Houston Texans are reshaping their backfield and offensive line with a flurry of moves Monday, acquiring running back David Montgomery from the Detroit Lions and right tackle Tytus Howard from the Cleveland Browns. The Texans sent a 2026 fourth-round draft pick, offensive lineman Juice Scruggs, and a 2027 seventh-round pick to Detroit for Montgomery, according to multiple reports.
The trade addresses a clear demand for Houston, which ranked 22nd in the league in rushing yards per game in 2025 with 108 yards, despite the efforts of rookie Woody Marks and veteran Nick Chubb. Marks led the team with 703 rushing yards, while Chubb, a pending free agent, added 506 yards in a limited role due to a prior knee injury. Montgomery, who had 2,506 rushing yards and 33 touchdowns in three seasons with the Lions, is expected to immediately turn into the Texans’ primary ball carrier.
The move also casts uncertainty on the future of Texans running back Joe Mixon, whom the team acquired two years ago. League sources anticipate Houston will likely release Mixon, who missed the entire 2025 season with a foot injury.
In Detroit, Montgomery’s role had diminished in 2025, with the Lions increasingly relying on Jahmyr Gibbs. Montgomery expressed some dissatisfaction with his reduced workload, engaging in discussions with Lions general manager Brad Holmes about his future, according to reports. Gibbs and Montgomery were affectionately nicknamed “Sonic and Knuckles” by fans, referencing their contrasting running styles. Gibbs posted a picture of the cartoon characters appearing distraught following news of the trade.
The Texans also bolstered their offensive line by acquiring Howard, sending a fifth-round pick to Cleveland. Howard immediately signed a three-year, $63 million extension with the Browns. Howard has started 93 games over his seven-year career.
Monday’s trades were part of a broader wave of activity as teams prepare for the start of the NFL’s legal tampering period on March 9 and the official opening of free agency on March 12. Several other players are expected to become available, including Vikings veterans Aaron Jones and Javon Hargrave, and Commanders cornerback Marshon Lattimore, who is reportedly set to be released.
The franchise tag deadline is Tuesday, March 3, at 4 p.m. ET. The Atlanta Falcons have tagged tight end Kyle Pitts, and the Dallas Cowboys have tagged wide receiver George Pickens, ensuring they remain with their respective teams for the 2026 season.