Top 5 NFC North running backs ranked after Dalvin Cook release

2. David Montgomery, Detroit Lions

The player Khalil Herbert is replacing in Chicago is new Detroit Lions running back David Montgomery. While he is at No. 2 in these rankings right now, he could actually fall down the list.

Montgomery stayed in the NFC North this offseason, signing with the Lions in free agency after spending four seasons with the Bears.

He has been a solid player in the NFL but has so far been unable to take his game to the next level.

Across four seasons in Chicago, Montgomery had 915 carries for 3,609 yards and 26 touchdowns. He only had one 1,000-yard season back in 2020. Montgomery does offer some pass-catching ability, having caught 155 passes for 1,240 yards and four touchdowns during his time in Chicago.

It's going to be fascinating to see how the Lions use Montgomery this season. They drafted Jahmyr Gibbs, and you don't select a running back 12th overall to play a complementary role. Gibbs will get a lot of opportunities, so where does that leave Montgomery?

This could be the best offense Montgomery has played in, so it could help him improve his numbers this season. The Lions like to run the ball and they will split the carries.