Questions surrounding the Detroit Lions’ handling of veteran running back David Montgomery have lingered for weeks, but the situation took a more concerning turn on Tuesday. ESPN reporter Eric Woodyard revealed that Montgomery did not participate in practice due to an unspecified illness.

Although the week is still young, the timing is troubling with Detroit set to face the Minnesota Vikings in a crucial Christmas Day matchup.
Detroit’s postseason chances are slim and leave no margin for error.

The Lions must win their remaining games and hope the Green Bay Packers lose both of theirs to sneak into the 2025 playoffs. That scenario requires the offense to be operating at full strength, and Montgomery’s presence is vital—even if his recent workload suggests otherwise. The veteran hasn’t logged more than eight rushing attempts in any of his past six outings, yet his role remains significant for a team clinging to playoff hopes.

An illness sidelining Montgomery would only complicate matters further and add fuel to ongoing speculation about his future with the franchise. Detroit’s limited use of a proven runner in such a critical stretch has already sparked discussion that this season could be his last in a Lions uniform.

Regardless of how the playoff race unfolds, the final two games should offer an opportunity to recommit to the run game and reestablish Montgomery as a dependable offensive weapon.
Montgomery’s Health a Key Factor Ahead of Short-Week Matchup
Detroit’s situation is made even tougher by the short turnaround.

The Lions are scheduled to play in Thursday’s holiday tripleheader, giving Montgomery little time to recover before kickoff. Still, the Vikings are dealing with major issues of their own. Minnesota will be without quarterback J.J. McCarthy, forcing Max Brosmer into the starting role after the team’s tough loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers.

That development could benefit Detroit’s struggling defense, but a fully stocked backfield would further tip the scales.

Minnesota has struggled to stop the run all season, ranking 24th in rushing defense while allowing an average of 127 yards per game. The matchup presents an ideal opportunity for Detroit’s ground game to rebound, should Montgomery be cleared to play.

The Lions and Vikings will kick off at 4:30 p.m. EST on Christmas Day, leaving little recovery time for Detroit’s veteran back. Even so, there remains optimism that Montgomery can return and play a meaningful role in a game that will likely decide the Lions’ fate. Meanwhile, Green Bay will take the field later in the weekend, facing the Baltimore Ravens on Sunday night.