June 1 kicked off trades in the NFL once again, and a month later, NFL analysts are looking at every team's move. And what the Lions thought to be a premier move has now been labelled a downgrade.

Following David Montgomery's trade to the Houston Texans, the Lions signed running back Isiah Pacheco in free agency. Seth Walder made a bold statement, suggesting Detroit's backfield is now worse off.

"Perhaps Detroit's best move of the offseason was dealing Montgomery for a fourth-round pick, a seventh-round pick, and OL Juice Scruggs," writes Seth Walker. "Any time a team can get that type of draft capital for a 29-year-old backup running back, it has to jump at the chance. The Lions were right to do so even though Isiah Pacheco, who they signed in free agency, will likely be a downgrade."

Now, Walker's verdict comes based on numbers from the last few seasons. Over the last two years, his right knee injury during the team's win over the Washington Commanders has held him back. He managed just 462 rushing yards and one touchdown in 2025. Similarly, in 2024, he managed just 310 yards and a touchdown in half the games.

But there's still a chance for Pacheco to make an impact with the Lions. The former Kansas City Chiefs star rushed for 935 yards and seven touchdowns during the 2023 season and helped the franchise win two Super Bowls.

Detroit signed a one-year contract worth $1.81 million to play the role of a primary backup to Jahmyr Gibbs. The Lions believe his running style is perfect to play alongside Gibbs' explosiveness, giving the offense a threatening combination.

The 27-year-old has shown great development in a complementary role. His ability in short-yardage times and pass protection can help counterbalance some of what Detroit lost when Montgomery departed. The results will be seen when Pacheco steps into the field.

However, there's still hope for Pacheco.

What his role with the Lions could look like

The Detroit Lions parted with Montgomery, but Jahmyr Gibbs remains on their roster. And according to Dan Campbell's statements to the media, he's going to be at the top of the depth chart.

"He’s gonna be our bellcow now. … We’re gonna hang our hat on him quite a bit," Campbell said.

But that's not a surprise. Gibbs had 1,223 yards and 13 touchdowns last season. He's the clear pick. And it might be a positive change for Pacheco.

With the Chiefs, Pacheco was sharing responsibilities with Kareem Hunt, who managed a little over 600 yards. With Gibbs taking up the RB1 role, Pacheco could finally find his form once again.

What do you think? Let us know in the comments!

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Written by

Hetal Moleshri

Edited by

Siddharth Shirwadkar