Detroit Lions Running Back David Montgomery Hosts Youth Football Camp in Lansing, Inspiring Hundreds of Young Athletes with Lessons and Hope

The energy in Lansing was electric as kids from all around Michigan gathered under the sun to attend an event they’ll never forget. Detroit Lions running back David Montgomery, known for his bruising runs and relentless work ethic, traded in his helmet and pads for a whistle and clipboard as he hosted a free youth football camp aimed at inspiring the next generation of athletes.

The camp, held at Lansing Everett High School, attracted more than 300 children ranging in age from 6 to 14. As Montgomery jogged onto the field, he was greeted with the kind of enthusiasm typically reserved for NFL stadiums. But this day wasn’t about autographs or selfies—it was about mentorship, guidance, and giving back to the community that supports him every Sunday.

Montgomery, entering his sixth year in the NFL and second season with the Lions, made it clear that this camp meant more than just drills and footballs. “This isn’t just about teaching them how to run routes or tackle,” he said. “It’s about showing them they matter. It’s about giving them something I wish I had more of when I was a kid—people who believed in me.”

Montgomery’s own journey to the NFL is one rooted in resilience. Raised in Cincinnati, Ohio, in challenging circumstances, he used football as both an escape and a purpose. He’s carried that chip on his shoulder throughout his career, from starring at Iowa State to becoming one of the most consistent running backs in the NFL. Now with the Lions, he’s become a fan favorite not just for his performance on the field, but for the passion he brings to Detroit and its surrounding communities.

That passion was evident throughout the day. Montgomery was not a passive observer. He was hands-on, jumping into drills, correcting footwork, encouraging kids after missed catches, and celebrating their successes. When a 10-year-old named Malik fumbled during a ball security drill and lowered his head in disappointment, Montgomery walked over, crouched beside him, and said, “You only fail when you stop trying. Let’s run it again together.”

Moments like that were abundant, and they resonated far beyond the field. Parents watched from the sidelines, some holding back tears as they saw their children coached, encouraged, and embraced by a professional athlete who once stood in shoes not unlike their kids’.

“He doesn’t have to do this,” said Jasmine Washington, a mother of two boys who attended the camp. “He could be anywhere right now, but he chose to be here with our kids. That means everything to me as a parent.”

Montgomery partnered with several local organizations to make the event free for all participants. Each camper received a Lions-branded T-shirt, lunch, and plenty of hydration throughout the hot afternoon. Coaches and volunteers from local high schools and youth football programs were also on hand to assist with drills, stations, and overall organization.

The day was divided into position-specific work, team-building activities, and life lessons. Between sprints and scrimmages, Montgomery gathered the kids around to talk about the importance of discipline, education, and dreaming big.

“Football is a blessing, but not everyone’s going to the league,” he said during one huddle. “Be the best version of yourself, on and off the field. Respect your teachers. Help your friends. Do the right thing when no one is watching.”

Those words weren’t just lip service. They were a message deeply rooted in Montgomery’s upbringing. He’s frequently spoken about the mentors who helped steer him away from trouble, and how he now views it as his responsibility to return that guidance tenfold.

“I know what it’s like to not see a clear future,” he said in a quieter moment, standing near the sidelines while groups rotated through cone drills. “I know what it’s like to feel overlooked. I just want them to know that their circumstances don’t define their destiny.”

The camp wasn’t just about individual growth. It also fostered community unity. Lansing mayor Andy Schor made an appearance and commended Montgomery for his outreach.

“This is the type of positive influence we want in our city,” Schor said. “David’s presence here means so much to these kids and their families. It sends the message that their dreams are possible and that people care.”

Montgomery’s teammates took notice as well. Though he hosted the camp solo, a few fellow Lions sent messages that were played during a short video segment at the end of the day. Jahmyr Gibbs, Amon-Ra St. Brown, and Penei Sewell all offered words of encouragement, reminding the campers that hard work, dedication, and belief in oneself are the keys to success.

Montgomery, who rushed for over 900 yards and scored double-digit touchdowns in his first year with Detroit, said community outreach like this keeps him grounded. “The season is long. It’s physical. It’s demanding. But days like this? They refuel me. They remind me why I do what I do.”

He’s not alone in that sentiment. One volunteer, Marcus Bell, who coaches youth football in nearby Holt, said Montgomery’s example will be felt long after the cleats are cleaned and the jerseys are washed.

“These kids will remember today for the rest of their lives,” Bell said. “They’ll remember that an NFL player took the time to show up, to teach, to care. That stays with them.”

As the camp wrapped up, Montgomery took the time to sign every T-shirt, every football, and take every requested photo. But even as he stood smiling for pictures, his eyes constantly scanned the crowd, making sure no kid felt left out.

“This was the best day of my life,” said 11-year-old Kayden Myers, clutching his camp football. “David told me I could be great. And I believe him.”

That belief, Montgomery knows, can move mountains.

The day ended with a group picture—hundreds of kids packed around Montgomery, flashing wide smiles and flexing their arms for the camera. But before the final shutter clicked, Montgomery raised his hand.

“Wait,” he called out. “Before we finish—repeat after me: I am strong. I am smart. I am enough.”

The chorus of young voices echoed loud across the field, affirming his message with joy and conviction. It was the sound of hope being planted.

As the field emptied and families began to head home, there was a collective sense that something meaningful had just happened—something bigger than football. In a world where headlines often highlight the negative, Montgomery offered a reminder that role models still exist, and that with effort, intention, and heart, one person can spark a ripple effect of inspiration.

Back in the parking lot, Montgomery helped fold up tables and clean up equipment. When a volunteer asked if he wanted to head out early, Montgomery just smiled and shook his head. “I’ll leave when the job is done,” he said.

Just like he does every Sunday. Just like he always has.