David Montgomery shares optimistic outlook on potential return to the field this season.
Detroit Lions Face Mounting Injuries Amid Playoff Push
The Detroit Lions are enjoying an impressive 12-2 record atop the NFC standings, but injuries threaten to derail their momentum. Over 20 players are currently on injured reserve (IR), and Sunday’s high-scoring loss to the Buffalo Bills added four more names to the list: cornerbacks Carlton Davis and Khalil Dorsey, defensive tackle Alim McNeill, and running back David Montgomery.
While Davis, Dorsey, and McNeill were placed on IR on Tuesday, Montgomery’s status remains uncertain. Initially, head coach Dan Campbell suggested that Montgomery might require season-ending surgery to repair a torn MCL.
“We’re going to miss him,” Campbell remarked solemnly during Monday’s press conference.
Montgomery Hints at Possible Return
On Tuesday, however, Montgomery gave Lions fans a glimmer of hope during a coat drive he hosted. Speaking with team reporter Dannie Rogers, the star running back provided a surprising update.
“He wasn’t put on IR today because he’s working through some logistics and things could change,” Montgomery shared, leaving the door open for a potential comeback.
When asked directly about the possibility of returning this season, Montgomery’s response was simple but optimistic: “I hope so.”
A Critical Piece of the Lions’ Offense
Montgomery has been a cornerstone of the Lions’ dynamic offense, forming a formidable running back tandem with rookie sensation Jahmyr Gibbs. The duo has been pivotal to Detroit’s success, with Montgomery contributing 775 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns on 185 carries this season.
The former Iowa State standout joined the Lions in 2023 after spending four seasons with the Chicago Bears, who drafted him in the third round of the 2019 NFL Draft. Montgomery has since become a leader on and off the field, bringing grit and reliability to Detroit’s ground game.
Looking Ahead
While Montgomery’s availability remains uncertain, Jahmyr Gibbs is expected to shoulder the bulk of the workload in the coming weeks. The Lions will undoubtedly feel Montgomery’s absence if he’s unable to return, but his update on Tuesday keeps fans hopeful for a late-season comeback.
As the Lions continue their push toward the playoffs, the team and its supporters will eagerly await further developments on Montgomery’s recovery timeline. For now, Detroit remains focused on staying competitive and overcoming the challenges posed by mounting injuries.
