David Montgomery Confirms Big Offseason Change to Detroit Lions Writer Ahead of Thursday Opener

The Detroit Lions' first preseason game is scheduled for Thursday against the Los Angeles Chargers at the NFL Hall of Fame Game in Canton, Ohio ahead of the Pro Football Hall of Fame's latest induction ceremony on Saturday.

The game is expected to bring plenty of challenges for Detroit's roster, including both starters and backups as the Chargers were one of the better teams in pro football last season.

Prior to the game, Detroit Lions running back David Montgomery spoke with a Lions beat writer, revealing a change that took place this offseason which could portend a big season for Jahmyr Gibbs' backfield mate.

"I had a quick chat with #Lions RB David Montgomery today," mlive.com reporter Kory Woods said on Tuesday.

"Just watching how fast he's moving and cutting, plus how slim his face looks, it seemed like he leaned out this offseason while still keeping that solid frame. He confirmed it."

"If you check out his Instagram, he posted clips four days ago showing just how intense and rigorous his offseason workouts have been," Woods added.

Montgomery has labeled himself as the forgotten man of the Lions' vaunted backfield duo. He rushed for 775 yards and 12 touchdowns on a 4.2 yards per carry average last season, cementing himself as a strong between-the-tackles runner in departed offensive coordinator Ben Johnson's system.