Entering the 2024 NFL season, the Detroit Lions might have the best running backs room in the entire league, but that was not reflected in one outlet's recent rankings.
The Lions sport two very talented backs atop their depth chart in David Montgomery and Jahmyr Gibbs. Despite having a timeshare, both broke 1,000 scrimmage yards in 2023, and Montgomery rushed for 1,015 yards while Gibbs had 945. In all, the Lions sported the No. 5 rushing attack, both in terms of total yards and yards per game.
And both backs complement each other extremely well. Montgomery is more of a traditional runner who is tough between the tackles but also capable of ripping off a big play. Gibbs is the more explosive runner and is an absolute menace as a pass-catcher.
Despite the immense talent the Lions have at the position, CBS Sports' Tyler Sullivan placed Detroit's room in the second tier of his rankings, although he did admit that the Lions are knocking on the door of Tier 1.
Ahead of the Lions in the first tier were the San Francisco 49ers, Philadelphia Eagles, Baltimore Ravens and Green Bay Packers. Those teams no doubt sport good rooms, but the Lions are undoubtedly right there with them.
Gibbs should be even better in 2024 now that he has some experience, and the Lions are planning on giving him more work. That will likely cut into Montgomery's production, but he's still only 27 and should be as good as he was last year.
Even if one gets hurt, the other is more than capable of carrying the load and helping Detroit's rushing attack not skip a beat. Not many teams have the same luxury.
