By Nick Lentz. Click here for updates on this story. DETROIT (WWJ) — Detroit Lions running Back David Montgomery has graduated from college
David Montgomery, the Detroit Lions’ dynamic running back, has recently achieved a significant personal milestone: he has completed his college degree at Iowa State University. This accomplishment is particularly noteworthy given his demanding NFL career, which has spanned six seasons. At 28 years old, Montgomery’s decision to prioritize his education underscores a commitment to personal growth and responsibility. He emphasized the importance of honoring his commitment to graduate, a promise he made after receiving a full-ride scholarship .Pride Of Detroit
Born on June 7, 1997, in Cincinnati, Ohio, Montgomery attended Mount Healthy High School, where he was a dual-threat quarterback and a three-time all-state selection. He then went on to play college football at Iowa State University from 2016 to 2018. During his time with the Cyclones, Montgomery rushed for 624 times, accumulating 2,925 yards and 26 touchdowns. He also showcased his versatility by adding 71 receptions for 582 yards. In his junior year, Montgomery was named First-Team All-Big 12 and ranked second in the conference in both rushing yards and touchdowns .detroitlions.com+1Wikipedia+1Wikipedia+1detroitlions.com+1
Montgomery’s impressive college performance led him to be selected by the Chicago Bears in the third round of the 2019 NFL Draft. Over his first four seasons with the Bears, he established himself as a reliable and powerful running back, ranking sixth in franchise history in rushing yards and tying for sixth in rushing touchdowns .Wikipediadetroitlions.com
In March 2023, Montgomery signed a three-year, $18 million contract with the Detroit Lions. His arrival in Detroit was marked by immediate impact. In his first season with the Lions, he rushed for 1,015 yards and 13 touchdowns, tying for the second-most rushing touchdowns in a player’s first season with the team . Montgomery’s ability to perform under pressure was evident when he scored the game-winning touchdown in overtime against the Los Angeles Rams in the 2024 season opener .lastwordonsports.comdetroitlions.com
Montgomery’s dynamic partnership with fellow running back Jahmyr Gibbs has been a highlight for the Lions. The duo, affectionately dubbed “Sonic and Knuckles,” combines Gibbs’ speed with Montgomery’s power, creating a formidable rushing attack. Together, they amassed 1,960 rushing yards during the 2023 season, the highest total for any running back duo in the NFL that year .Pride Of Detroit+2talkSPORT+2Forbes+2Forbes+1talkSPORT+1
Beyond his on-field achievements, Montgomery has made significant contributions off the field. While at Iowa State, he was recognized as a semi-finalist for the Jason Witten Collegiate Man of the Year Award for his efforts in befriending a young boy with congenital heart defects and organizing a team visit to help clean up after a tornado in Marshalltown, Iowa . Additionally, Montgomery has been an advocate for a vegan lifestyle, adopting the diet during the 2020 season and drawing media attention for his unique post-game meals .Wikipedia
As Montgomery continues his NFL career with the Detroit Lions, his recent graduation from Iowa State University serves as a testament to his dedication and perseverance. Balancing the demands of professional football with academic commitments is no small feat, and Montgomery’s achievement sets a positive example for aspiring athletes. With the support of his teammates, including the dynamic duo with Gibbs, Montgomery remains focused on contributing to the Lions’ success in the upcoming seasons.Pride Of DetroitForbes+1talkSPORT+1
In conclusion, David Montgomery’s journey from a promising college athlete to a key player in the NFL is marked by his commitment to excellence both on and off the field. His recent graduation highlights the importance of education and personal growth, serving as an inspiration to others in the sports community.
