David Montgomery vs Jahmyr Gibbs: Who Should You Start?
There is a real production gap between these two running backs. Jahmyr Gibbs (Detroit Lions) averaged 19.3 PPG over 17 games in 2025, outscoring David Montgomery (Houston Texans, 9.1 PPG) by 10.2 points per week. That separation would need a significant matchup swing to overcome.
That 10.2-point weekly advantage for Jahmyr Gibbs is meaningful but not automatic. Fantasy football is a week-to-week sport, and the answer to "who should I start" often changes based on opponent, recent form, and game environment. Season averages set the baseline; weekly context makes the call.
Jahmyr Gibbs is the receiving back in this matchup, turning 77 targets into 616 yards, while David Montgomery profiles as a more traditional rusher with 716 rushing yards and 8 touchdowns. In PPR and half-PPR formats Jahmyr Gibbs carries the higher weekly floor. In standard leagues the gap tightens considerably.
One scheduling note: David Montgomery is off Week 14 and Jahmyr Gibbs Week 5. If these two are on your roster, you will need a fill-in running back for both weeks. DraftCall flags bye conflicts so you can plan ahead rather than panic on waivers.
