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Yahoo Fantasy Football fantasy football takes on David Montgomery
Every source-backed article insight STACKED has extracted from Yahoo Fantasy Football about David Montgomery.
47
Insights
17
Positive
21
Negative
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All Yahoo Fantasy Football insights about David Montgomery
PositiveProjectionSep 15, 2026
David Montgomery delivered in Week 1 for Scott Pianowski, who took early victory laps on players he was high on during the draft process. Montgomery was among Pianowski's most notable contributors, helping lift him to a win over Eric Edholm in the opener.NegativeValueSep 14, 2026
Montgomery scored two touchdowns in Week 1 but was held to 60 yards on 20 carries against Buffalo's weak rush defense. The source notes Houston's offensive line still isn't creating much room and projects another high-volume, touchdown-dependent season similar to Woody Marks' tenure in Houston. The source recommends selling Montgomery after his two-touchdown game while the window is open.PositiveValueSep 13, 2026
Montgomery was drafted as an RB2 or even RB3 during draft season but finished Week 1 as a top-five scoring RB with 27.4 fantasy points on 20 carries, 3 receptions, 93 total yards, and 1 touchdown. The source notes he may be a league-winner in 2026 given his locked-in RB2 status with potential RB1 upside similar to Javonte Williams in Dallas, plus Houston's favorable schedule over the next four weeks (vs. CIN, @ IND, vs. DAL, @ TEN) and expected positive game scripts for the run game.PositiveProjectionSep 12, 2026
Montgomery has a strong Week 1 matchup in his Texans debut against the Bills, who surrendered the eighth-most fantasy points per game to running backs last season, including the most rushing touchdowns to opposing backfields. The Texans ranked eighth in rushing attempts in 2025, so Montgomery should see plenty of opportunities. He has ranked top 10 in goal-to-go rush attempts in six of his seven career seasons, positioning him as a rock-solid RB2 with legitimate touchdown upside.PositiveMatchupSep 11, 2026
Montgomery is recommended as a start against the Bills, who gave up the sixth-most fantasy points to RBs in 2025. While the long-term outlook for Buffalo's defense under Jim Leonhard is hopeful, it might take time for this unit to gel, making it a favorable matchup for attacking with RBs in Week 1.PositiveMatchupSep 11, 2026
Montgomery is a strong start against the Bills in Week 1. Buffalo's defense is undergoing changes under Jim Leonhard, and while the long-term outlook is hopeful, it might take time for this unit to gel. For now, attacking this unit with RBs is advisable after they gave up the sixth-most fantasy points to the position in 2025.PositiveValueSep 9, 2026
The source suggests Montgomery probably needs a caddy at this stage but even in a 70-30 split can return his ADP, indicating value at his draft price.NegativeMatchupSep 9, 2026
Montgomery faces a neutral to solid matchup against the Bills in Week 1. The Texans are 14th in projected points while hosting Buffalo, who are unleashing a new 3-4 defense under DC Jim Leonard. Buffalo was the sixth-worst defense against fantasy RBs last year after adjusting for schedule and played with a two-high shell at the third-highest rate, but more defenders in the box are expected this time around.NegativeProjectionSep 9, 2026
Montgomery faces significant headwinds in Houston. The Texans RB room averaged 16.0 half PPR points per game last year (28th) despite being 8th in carries, with a brutal offensive line and 27th-ranked receptions. The hope is Montgomery is much better than recently-retired Nick Chubb and that new offensive line additions pay dividends, but Hayden Winks is skeptical. At age 29, Montgomery is not explosive enough to create much on his own, and Woody Marks is expected to rotate in both rushing and passing phases even if Monty is the favorite for goal-line carries early on.PositiveProjectionSep 8, 2026
Ranked as the seventeenth-best running back for Week 1 by Daniel Dobish of TheHuddle.com, facing the Buffalo Bills at home.NegativeValueSep 2, 2026
David Montgomery has declined from average to below average as the source's reverse Bucky Irving. At 29 years old, he lost his role from a coach who loved him and now moves to the Texans' okay offense with a poor offensive line. He is not expected to be the main pass-catching RB, and Woody Marks has steady drumbeat; if Montgomery's touch share drops from 75%-80% to 65%, the source questions if that's enough and prefers drafting a top WR in his range instead.NegativeRoleSep 2, 2026
Montgomery was taken at 5.06 in Round 5. The source groups Montgomery with Irving, Judkins and Tuten as running backs that come with red flags (which is why they are fifth-round picks), but all four are solid low-end RB2 options with guaranteed RB volume mixed with upside. Boone debated scooping up Montgomery in Round 5 but ultimately went with Watson instead.NegativeProjectionSep 2, 2026
JJ Zachariason notes that David Montgomery isn't a world-beater at running back, suggesting that Woody Marks can outplay the veteran and overtake the Texans backfield.NegativeBustSep 1, 2026
Montgomery's move to Houston as a lead-back is less attractive than his prior role in Detroit despite the perceived upgrade. Detroit operated 11.2 red-zone plays per game with a 68.8% conversion rate and 27.8 offensive points per game, compared to Houston's 9.8 red-zone plays, 49.3% conversion rate, and 22.4 offensive points per game. Jared Goff (0.17 EPA per dropback, 48.0% passing success rate, +1.78% CPOE) significantly outperformed C.J. Stroud (0.07 EPA per dropback, 44.7% passing success rate, +0.36% CPOE) despite similar pressure rates (36-37%). The loss of Jayden Higgins further strains Houston's passing game, and the Texans' backfield may feature a tighter split than anticipated, making Montgomery's situation less favorable than his previous environment.NegativeBustSep 1, 2026
The source identifies Montgomery as the Round 6 worst pick to avoid in 2026. While bullish drafters point to his new lead-back status in Houston, the source argues his situation deteriorated significantly from Detroit. In Detroit (2025), Montgomery had 11.2 red-zone plays per game and 68.8% red-zone conversion rate on a 27.8 PPG offense. In Houston (2025), he had 9.8 red-zone plays per game and 49.3% red-zone conversion rate on a 22.4 PPG offense. QB comparison: Jared Goff (0.17 EPA per dropback, 48.0% success rate, +1.78% CPOE) significantly outperformed C.J. Stroud (0.07 EPA per dropback, 44.7% success rate, +0.36% CPOE), despite both facing similar pressure rates (36-37%). The Lions' superior offensive environment made Montgomery's role more valuable than his Houston lead-back status.PositiveRoleAug 31, 2026
David Montgomery joins the Texans backfield as an upgraded option bringing stability to the rushing attack. Justin Boone argues this upgrade should allow Houston to sustain more drives and get the offense back on track, supporting C.J. Stroud's fantasy upside.NegativeRoleAug 28, 2026
Running back David Montgomery is confirmed out for the Texans-Panthers preseason finale, resting ahead of the regular season.PositiveValueAug 26, 2026
Early-slot Zero RB strategy candidate with access to early-down and short-yardage work; recommended as a first running back swing in Round 5 for early-slot drafters, representing a back with bell-cow potential still available after WR tier is locked in.NegativeBustAug 26, 2026
Montgomery must overcome career wear-and-tear and a horrific Texans offensive line; Houston is 31st in EPA per carry and 22nd in rush yards per game since 2023. Montgomery is not paid like Joe Mixon was nor has had Mixon's career before his RB9 finish in 2024; the Texans lead back finished outside the top-34 in 2023 and 2025. Woody Marks is a second-year player with a better passing-down profile and improved play between the tackles per camp reports and preseason tape. Montgomery's missed tackles per touch rate last year was 18%, down from 27%, 21%, and 24% in the previous three seasons; if he's not clearly better than Marks, there's no reason to make this a bellcow backfield. Even if he's a workhorse, the Texans OL is starting an out-of-position rookie center and three potentially washed veterans. Winks has taken Montgomery in only 4% of his drafts.NegativeUsageAug 26, 2026
Montgomery was not drafted in this mock but is discussed in context of Woody Marks' opportunity. The source notes Montgomery has a lot of miles and should see plenty of goal-line work, but the coaching staff may want to keep him fresh, creating opportunity for Marks in passing situations.NegativeRoleAug 25, 2026
Montgomery is expected to be part of a close to 50-50 backfield split with Woody Marks in the Texans' offense. He is currently at RB21 ADP, significantly higher than Marks at RB49, reflecting his status as the primary back despite the committee approach.NegativeProjectionAug 24, 2026
David Montgomery was discussed in preseason rankings updates segment, indicating evaluation of his draft positioning and fantasy outlook for the 2026 season.NegativeValueAug 24, 2026
David Montgomery is presented as a viable pivot option for mid-slot first-round picks in Superflex leagues if you want to avoid the Zero RB approach; the source suggests Montgomery offers high-end value at RB even after elite options are off the board, allowing for a roster with weekly starters across all positions.NegativeRoleAug 21, 2026
JJ Zachariason is fading Montgomery in 2026 based on preseason Week 2 evidence that Woody Marks could realistically overtake the backfield via performance. Zachariason projects a potential 50/50 split between Montgomery and Marks, with Marks positioned to earn snaps through on-field performance rather than injury.NegativeProjectionAug 21, 2026
Montgomery wasn't included in preseason Week 2 action, and the source is fading him in 2026 drafts due to Woody Marks' impressive performance and pass protection work. The source projects Marks to play real snaps at Montgomery's expense.NegativeProjectionAug 20, 2026
Entering Year 8 in 2026, Montgomery faces significant historical headwinds. Since 2000, only 0.62 Year 8 RBs averaged 15+ PPR PPG per season, representing a substantial dip from the prime years (Years 3-7) when the number of top RBs is cut in half after Year 7. The source identifies Montgomery as one of only three Year 8 RBs in 2026.NegativeRoleAug 19, 2026
Montgomery has moved from Detroit to Houston, ending his backfield partnership with Jahmyr Gibbs. This move opens up a heavier workload for Gibbs in Detroit.PositiveRoleAug 18, 2026
Montgomery is brought in by the Texans this offseason after Woody Marks' rookie season. The source is not expecting anything too far off from Montgomery's bell-cow volume in 2026, indicating the veteran is expected to be the primary back despite Marks' receiving prowess.PositiveRoleAug 17, 2026
Montgomery joins the Texans as a veteran back addition designed to bring balance to their attack after the run game suffered without Joe Mixon. His arrival is part of the strengthened 2026 offensive supporting cast around C.J. Stroud.NegativeValueAug 12, 2026
Jalen Nailor lists David Montgomery as one of his least favorite picks in the mock draft, though he notes the difference is only about 5-10 spots in rankings between his preferred targets and players like Irving and Montgomery.NegativeProjectionAug 12, 2026
Positioned as a mid to low-end RB2 in the Texans' backfield.NegativeRoleAug 12, 2026
Montgomery is described as a perfectly fine running back for those prioritizing wide receivers, quarterbacks, or tight ends early in drafts. He has a floor of 15-20 touches per game while being a top red zone option, though Houston's offense could be middling and he may be a half step slower entering Year 8.PositiveRoleAug 11, 2026
Montgomery joins a Texans offense that watched Woody Marks start for a portion of last season and decided to trade for veteran help, reminiscent of Joe Mixon's arrival in Houston a couple years ago which resulted in 1,325 scrimmage yards, 12 touchdowns and an RB5 fantasy finish. While Montgomery likely won't reach that level, he's positioned as a strong fantasy RB2.PositiveProjectionAug 11, 2026
David Montgomery is a solid back with a proven track record, joining a Texans offense that traded for veteran help after Woody Marks started last season. This mirrors Joe Mixon's arrival in Houston a couple years ago, which resulted in 1,325 scrimmage yards, 12 touchdowns and an RB5 fantasy finish. Montgomery likely won't reach that level but is a strong fantasy RB2.NegativeValueAug 10, 2026
Montgomery's ADP of 53.7 falls outside the traditional RB Dead Zone range, but Mike Mcdaniel views him as a worthwhile swing at cost due to favorable risk-reward. Offseason reports confirm he will be Houston's RB1 for 2026. In Detroit, Montgomery forced a timeshare despite superior talent (Jahmyr Gibbs), averaging 2.7 targets per game and securing goal-line carries. He joins a Texans backfield where former lead back Woody Marks underperformed in every rushing efficiency metric as a rookie, reducing Montgomery's relative risk versus upside.NegativeValueAug 10, 2026
Montgomery is listed with an ADP of 53.7 for 2026, falling outside the traditional Dead Zone range but sharing a comparable risk profile. Offseason reports indicate Montgomery will be the Texans' RB1, and unlike cautionary examples like Kaleb Johnson, Montgomery forced a timeshare in Detroit when superior talent (Jahmyr Gibbs) arrived, earning 2.7 targets per game and goal-line carries. The source is willing to take a swing on Montgomery at cost, suggesting positive value relative to the risk profile.NegativeProjectionAug 7, 2026
Montgomery is characterized as a proven veteran with a limited ceiling in Tier 4. His role has been diminished by the Jahmyr Gibbs trade, making him a less attractive option compared to younger backs with higher upside potential.NegativeRoleAug 4, 2026
Montgomery departed Detroit for Texas in the offseason, vacating his role as Jahmyr Gibbs' partner and opening up additional offensive opportunities for Gibbs.NegativeDepth ChartAug 4, 2026
Montgomery's loss from the Lions may push the team to pass even more in 2026, creating additional volume opportunity for Dan Goff and the Lions' passing game.NegativeProjectionAug 3, 2026
Montgomery was an RB2 threat when the Lions were the best offense in the NFL, but that won't be the case with the Texans, who are 19th in projected points (23.1); for reference, the Lions in a down year last season averaged 28.3. Houston's offensive line keeps adding new starters, but their quality is questionable. It's difficult to overcome a mid offensive line without a receiving profile. The Texans are 31st in EPA per carry and 22nd in rush yards per game since 2023 when DeMeco Ryans and C.J. Stroud were brought to Houston.PositiveRoleJul 30, 2026
The majority of offseason chatter has revolved around Montgomery dominating the Texans backfield after the team traded for him to replace Woody Marks as the between-the-tackles runner. This offense is just one season removed from helping Joe Mixon finish as the RB5 overall with 1,325 scrimmage yards and 12 touchdowns, suggesting Montgomery has similar upside within his range of outcomes.PositiveMatchupJul 30, 2026
Montgomery will encounter three of the top eight easiest opponents for fantasy backs from last season in the Bills, Bengals and Cowboys in his first four weeks. The Texans' offense is positioned to have success moving the ball on the ground against these defenses.NegativeRoleJul 29, 2026
David Montgomery was traded away by the Lions to the Texans as part of a running back transition; he was a big part of the Lions' two-headed attack at running back and his departure represents a downgrade at the position, though the Lions saved money and acquired valuable draft picks in the deal.NegativeRoleJul 29, 2026
Montgomery was traded to the Texans as part of the Lions' running back restructuring; he was a big part of the Lions' two-headed attack at running back but was replaced by Isiah Pacheco, which the source characterizes as a downgrade despite the Lions saving money and receiving valuable draft picks.PositiveProjectionNo date
Montgomery is ranked in Tier IV (Solid RB2s) and the source is a believer in him this season on a team with a great defense and mediocre weapons after Nico Collins; the source looks at Joe Mixon's numbers from two years ago and asks why not, suggesting similar upside.NegativeRoleNo date
Montgomery is now on the Texans after splitting time with Jahmyr Gibbs on the Lions. Gibbs averaged 25.1 half-PPR points in eight games that Montgomery missed or played under 25% snaps, indicating Montgomery's role was a significant constraint on Gibbs' volume. With Montgomery's departure, Gibbs is expected to set career highs in volume.PositiveRoleNo date
Montgomery was phased out in Detroit as Jahmyr Gibbs took on more responsibility, losing goal-line touchdown opportunities. Traded to Houston, Montgomery will share the backfield with Woody Marks but should be the primary goal-line back. The Texans need physicality and a solid rushing attack to pair with their defense, and Montgomery will be a major factor in that plan given C.J. Stroud's 2025 struggles.