After Shocking David Montgomery Trade, Broncos Receive a Series of Bad News
DENVER — David Montgomery, the running back for the Detroit Lions, became one of the most sought-after names in free agency this offseason. However, for the Denver Broncos, one of the teams that could have benefited from his addition, this trade has brought some unexpected bad news. Montgomery did not join the Broncos as many had hoped; instead, he was traded to the Houston Texans in a deal that has left Broncos fans disappointed.
Bad News #1: Losing an Important Target
Looking to strengthen their roster and improve their offense, Broncos had pinpointed David Montgomery as the perfect fit. He was a "reliable veteran" who could stabilize early downs, support quarterback Bo Nix, and keep the offense on track. However, Texans swooped in and traded for Montgomery with a deal that included center Juice Scruggs and a fourth-round and seventh-round pick. This was a deal that Broncos could have matched, but they didn’t act.
Bad News #2: Montgomery Goes to Another Team
Not only did Texans secure Montgomery, but they also removed him from the realistic trade target list for other teams, including the Broncos. The fact that Texans made the deal first has taken away the opportunity for Broncos to land a player who could have made a huge difference in their backfield. Losing out on Montgomery was a significant blow, as he represented a solid solution for their running back needs.
Bad News #3: Plan B Gets More Complicated
With Montgomery now off the table, Broncos will need to pivot and look to other options for the running back position. Names like Kenneth Walker, Tyler Allgeier, and J.K. Dobbins are now on the radar, but none offer the same stability and proven track record that Montgomery brought. The absence of a reliable back for early downs makes the loss of Montgomery sting even more for Broncos fans.
Texans gave up a good bit for Montgomery. I liked the option, but glad the Broncos didn't give up that much.
— MileHighReport (@MileHighReport) March 2, 2026
Kenneth Walker, Tyler Allgeier, JK Dobbins, and others remain available in free agency and you still have the draft.
Bad News #4: Financial and Long-Term Strategy Challenges
Though Montgomery had a two-year, $18.25 million contract, his salary structure was seen as reasonable for a veteran starter, not top-of-market. If the Broncos had moved for him, they could have added a reliable back without breaking the bank. But with their financial flexibility for the upcoming seasons, the Broncos must now figure out how to allocate resources effectively, especially when looking for a replacement.
4th+7th + an OL for Montgomery is a lot.
— Benjamin Allbright (@AllbrightNFL) March 2, 2026
Broncos had interest but that price tag too high.
Broncos Fans React
Broncos fans were understandably disappointed by the news. Some argued that acquiring a player like Montgomery would have solved many problems in their backfield, while others felt the team should focus its resources elsewhere. The mixed reactions show just how much this missed opportunity has affected the fanbase's outlook for the coming season.
Conclusion
After David Montgomery was traded to the Houston Texans, Denver Broncos not only lost an important target but also faced several challenges in solidifying their offense. Missing out on Montgomery has disrupted the Broncos' plans and left a significant void in their lineup for the upcoming season. The Broncos now need to quickly find a suitable replacement, but whether they can fill this gap effectively remains to be seen. Time will tell.
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