by The Bears’ 25-year-old running back will be a free agent starting in March and there are a handful of teams that could help boost his fantasy football stock if they sign him.
David Montgomery headlines a short list of current premier backs expected to hit the NFL free agency market when the new league year begins in mid-March. The 25-year-old rusher is coming off a subpar season with the bears, posted just 891 rushing yards, six total scores and 177.7 fantasy points. That was good enough for him to finish as the RB24.
Montgomery’s rushing yards and touchdowns have declined for three straight years, so a change of scenery could go a long way. He’s also still early in his career, so it’s not out of the realm of possibility that a new team and offense could push him back into the top 20 running backs based on fantasy points moving forward.
Here are five teams that may need a running back and would be interesting spots for Montgomery to land next season.
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Philadelphia Eagles
The IS Eagle could decide to let Miles Sanders, who is coming off a career season, walked as a free agent. That would leave them empty in their backfield that Montgomery could fill. I could argue that he’s a better back than Sanders, and could be a cheaper option for a team that’s a bit over the salary cap at this point in time. The veteran would be in the RB2 conversation in an elite Eagles offense.
Miami Dolphins
The IS Dolphins there could be a gaping hole in the backfield, as Raheem Mostert, Jeff Wilson Jr., Salvon Ahmed (RFA) and Myles Gaskin are all set to become free agents. If the team decides to go the free agent route, Montgomery could be an option. Entering his age-26 season and looking to play a projected role in a productive offense, Montgomery’s fantasy draft value would rise in the 2023 leagues.
Buffalo Bills
James Cook who is not built to be a full-time visible back, and Devin Singletary He is expected to be a free agent. What would happen if the Bills picked Montgomery to be their new lead runner? Josh Allen would have more chances in the end zone than himself, but Montgomery would also be in a balanced offense where running defenses couldn’t target him. Montgomery would still be a player to watch as an RB2 in all formats.
Carolina Panthers
Since that Onta Foreman is expected to leave the Panthers for free agency, the team may be looking for a running back. In an offense that could use extra plays, Montgomery could be an option, working side by side Chuba Hubbard to establish a backyard committee. Under new head coach Frank Reich, Carolina will want to run the football, and Montgomery would have a relatively effective offensive line blocking in front of him.
Detroit Lions
The IS Lions a pair of injury-prone veteran running backs D’Andre Swiftand Jamal Williams He’s heading into free agency. If the team decides not to keep him, Montgomery could be a good backup plan. Their offense scored a ton of points last season, and Williams led the NFL with a franchise-best 17 points. Montgomery would have flexible starting value if he left the Bears for the Lions.
