Detroit Lions
· 2026-07-11
Detroit Lions are scrambling to replace dwindling production from veteran running back David Montgomery, eyeing free‑agent Isiah Pacheco as the primary solution, even though sharp analysts doubt the fit. The team sits 9th in the NFC with a 9‑8 record and a one‑game winning streak, and next faces the New Orleans Saints on 2026‑09‑13.
Warren Sharp of SharpFootballAnalysis points out that Pacheco’s rookie‑year metrics fell well short of starter standards, despite playing in a Kansas City offense built for his success. Detroit’s offensive line is solid, but replicating the Chiefs’ scheme is unlikely. Sharp argues that the Lions risk over‑relying on a player who has not consistently hit key rushing efficiency marks.
Gibbs entered the season as a bell‑cow, already ranking in the top ten for rushing attempts and sitting just 80 carries shy of the league lead. Adding his growing role in the passing game means he could be asked to handle well over 300 touches if the Lions do not find a reliable backup. That workload would push him into the upper‑echelon of NFL work‑horse usage, raising durability concerns.
Beyond Pacheco, the Lions list Sione Vaki as the third‑string option. Vaki, now in his third season, has logged only seven carries for 18 yards after switching from a defensive role in college and battling injuries. Head coach Dan Campbell remains optimistic about Vaki’s development, but the gap between Montgomery’s 158‑carry season and Vaki’s limited production is stark.
Pacheco logged 170 attempts as a rookie, rising to 205 in his sophomore year, showing he can shoulder a moderate load. However, a broken leg limited him to 83 carries in 2024 and only 118 in the following season, with a sharp dip in yards per attempt. The Lions will need him to match his 2025 workload while improving efficiency to avoid a severe drop‑off at the position.
If Pacheco cannot stay healthy or productive, Detroit may have to lean even harder on Gibbs or explore trade options before the trade deadline. Some analysts suggest scouting the practice squad for a hidden gem or targeting a veteran in free agency who can provide immediate stability. The team’s next test comes against the Saints, a game that could expose any lingering backfield weaknesses.
With the Lions perched at 9‑8 and riding a one‑game win streak, the backfield decision could tip the balance in a tightly contested NFC. A productive Pacheco could keep the offense balanced, while a faltering plan might force the Lions into a run‑heavy approach that strains Gibbs and leaves the passing attack vulnerable. The upcoming Saints clash will be a litmus test for the new strategy.