Jared Goff Still Stunned by Bears’ Decision to Let David Montgomery Go

The Detroit Lions knew they were getting something special when David Montgomery came to town in 2023. But if you ask quarterback Jared Goff, he’s still scratching his head about how the Chicago Bears ever let him leave in the first place.

“I saw D-Mo from across the field for years in Chicago and I was shocked when they let him walk. When we landed him, I was like, ‘Holy smokes, we just got one of the best backs in the league,’” Goff said as quoted by NBC Sports.

Montgomery + Gibbs = A Dangerous Duo

Goff’s comments underline what’s become obvious for Lions fans: the combination of Montgomery and Gibbs gives Detroit one of the most balanced backfields in the NFL. Montgomery brings the toughness and downhill power while Gibbs brings speed, explosiveness, and versatility.

“You draft Gibbs and it’s like, ‘Wow, we have two of the best backs in the league,’” Goff said. “They feed off each other, they’re both incredibly hard-working and good players. The energy they feed off each other, one of them runs well and the other one wants to run well too. They’re as good as it gets.”

It’s no coincidence that Detroit’s rushing attack is near the top of the league this year. Offensive coordinator John Morton has leaned heavily on both runners, and it has given Jared Goff plenty of support in play-action situations.

Why the Bears’ Loss Was the Lions’ Gain

When Montgomery hit free agency after four seasons with Chicago, it raised some eyebrows that the Bears didn’t bring him back. For Detroit, though, it was a gift. Montgomery has fit perfectly into Dan Campbell’s smashmouth identity while still showing he can rip off explosive plays.

The running back’s leadership has also drawn praise from inside the building, where teammates describe him as one of the hardest workers on the roster. For Goff, having a veteran like Montgomery alongside a young star like Gibbs has made life much easier.

And judging by his tone, the quarterback still can’t believe his NFC North rival let it happen.

Bottom Line

The Bears’ decision to let David Montgomery walk may go down as one of the Lions’ biggest wins in free agency. And if Detroit continues to dominate on the ground, Goff’s “shock” will feel more like gratitude.