Former Bears running back David Montgomery is expected to sign a three-year, $18 million deal with the Lions, which marks the end of his career in Chicago.
Montgomery was drafted in the third round by the Bears in the 2018 NFL draft, and he’s been an impact contributor since his rookie season. Montgomery finishes his four-year career in Chicago with 3,609 rushing yards, which is sixth all-time in Bears history behind some greats like Walter Payton, Gale Sayers and Matt Forte.
Montgomery took to Instagram to share his gratitude and bid farewell to Chicago. He shared a video montage with the message:
“Thank You For taking a chance on a kid who had nothing. I will love you forever !!!! THANK YOU CHICAGO”
David Montgomery thanking Bears Nation and getting welcomed by the Lions fans on his Instagram pic.twitter.com/2tLkXnioGv
— Josh Buckhalter (@JoshGBuck) March 15, 2023
With Montgomery now in Detroit, the responsibility falls on Khalil Herbert’s shoulders. Herbert will serve as the presumptive lead back, where he’s coming off a success first year in Luke Getsy’s offense. He led all running backs in yards per attempt (5.7).
Shortly after Montgomery to the Lions, it was announced that the Bears had agreed to terms with former Seahawks running back Travis Homer, who will backup Herbert and bring the receiving option and pass protection that Montgomery was.
But Chicago will still see plenty of Montgomery, as they’ll face him twice a year with the Lions.