The Detroit Lions received unfortunate news on Monday, as it was revealed that veteran running back David Montgomery will be out for the remainder of the season due to a knee injury.

Montgomery sustained an MCL injury during the Lions’ Week 15 loss to the Buffalo Bills. Although he limped off the field in the second quarter, he later returned to the game. However, Montgomery struggled to perform, gaining just four yards on five carries and catching four passes for 31 yards.

With Montgomery sidelined for the season, Detroit will need to find a quick solution to replace his production. Second-year running back Jahmyr Gibbs is expected to take on a larger role and become the primary back in the Lions’ offense.

Gibbs has totaled 1,442 scrimmage yards and 14 touchdowns this season. However, the Lions can’t rely solely on the former first-round pick to shoulder the load.

On Monday, Lions head coach Dan Campbell mentioned two other running backs who could play key roles in the backfield.

“We’ve still got to be smart with (Gibbs), but we need him,” Campbell said (h/t Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press). “We need him and that’s the trick. So those other guys, Craig’s going to need to help us, which, he’ll be ready. And (Sione) Vaki, potentially, as well.”

Craig Reynolds, a former Kutztown standout, has been with the Lions for the last four years after stints with Washington and Jacksonville. He has appeared in all 14 games this season but has only rushed for 51 yards on 12 carries.

On the other hand, Vaki is a rookie from Utah who was drafted in the fourth round of the 2024 NFL Draft. The 23-year-old has seen limited action this season (seven touches for 31 yards). However, Vaki impressed in the preseason, rushing for 51 yards on 10 carries.

A former safety at Utah, Vaki’s athleticism caught the attention of teams, prompting them to explore his potential as a running back. For the Lions to secure the NFC North title, these three running backs will need to perform at a high level in the coming weeks.