David Montgomery Leaves OTA Practice Early

The Lions' newly signed running back came up hurt during Thursday's practice.

Detroit Lions running back David Montgomery left Thursday's practice early with an apparent lower-leg injury. 

During individual drills, the running back came up gingerly after making a cut. He went inside the team's facility soon after and did not return. 

Montgomery was signed by the organization during free agency as a replacement for Jamaal Williams, who signed earlier this offseason with the New Orleans Saints. 

In addition to Williams' departure, fellow incumbent D'Andre Swift was traded to the Philadelphia Eagles. The Lions received a 2025 fourth-round pick and a 2023 seventh-round pick in return, which they used on North Carolina receiver Antoine Green. 

A former member of the Chicago Bears, Montgomery signed a three-year contract worth up to $18 million. He will be tasked with replacing Williams, who became a fan favorite as a result of his leadership and physical running style.

Montgomery enjoyed a successful start to his career with Detroit's divisional foe. In four years in Chicago, he totaled 3,609 yards and 26 touchdowns. 

The fourth-year pro also is a capable receiver. Montgomery has 155 career receptions for 1,240 yards and four scores. 

He was drafted in the third round of the 2019 draft, out of Iowa State. He's one of two new additions to the Lions' running backs room, joined by 2023 No. 12 overall pick Jahmyr Gibbs. 

The rookie running back was dealing with an ankle injury that held him out of rookie minicamp. However, third-year head coach Dan Campbell said the rookie was healthy, heading into Thursday's practice. 

OTAs continue in three segments through June 15. Mandatory minicamp runs June 6-8. 

Linebacker Malcolm Rodriguez also left practice early, and was seen walking with a limp.