The 2024 NFL season has been a tough road for the Detroit Lions, as the team has faced an extensive list of injuries that have impacted their performance on both sides of the ball. Perhaps the most notable injury came in Week 5 when defensive star Aidan Hutchinson was sidelined for the remainder of the regular season. As the season wore on, the Lions continued to battle injuries, with key players like rookie cornerback Terrion Arnold and dominant right guard Kevin Zeitler both hurt in the final regular-season game against the Minnesota Vikings. Despite these setbacks, the Lions are entering their Divisional Round playoff matchup against the Washington Commanders with some much-needed positive news.
On January 7, Lions head coach Dan Campbell revealed that he was optimistic about running back David Montgomery’s return for the playoffs, particularly for the upcoming Divisional Round clash. Campbell’s prediction came to fruition just days later, as he confirmed on January 13 that Montgomery would be back in action. This was a massive boost for the Lions, as Montgomery has been a key piece of their offense all season long. In a press conference, Campbell highlighted Montgomery’s importance, saying, “5’s a big part of us. He’s a huge part of us. And to me, he’s a bell cow. He’s a tone-setter. He’s a catalyst. There’s a place for him here, so there will be a place for him in this game.” Campbell added, “It’s going to be good to get him back.”
Montgomery’s injury occurred in Week 15 when he suffered a torn MCL, an injury that initially seemed like it would sideline him for the remainder of the season. However, the running back has made a remarkable recovery, and just five weeks later, he’s healthy enough to contribute again in the Lions’ playoff push. This marks a significant turning point for the team as they aim to capture their first Super Bowl title. Montgomery’s return provides a much-needed boost to a team already stacked with offensive talent.
Since joining the Lions ahead of the 2023 season, Montgomery has been a perfect fit for the team’s offensive scheme. In his first year, he rushed for 1,015 yards and 13 touchdowns, proving to be a reliable workhorse. This season, he amassed 775 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns, along with 36 receptions for 341 yards before his injury. His ability to complement rookie running back Jahmyr Gibbs has helped form one of the most dynamic backfields in the NFL. With Montgomery back in the lineup, the Lions now possess even more firepower to challenge their opponents.
Montgomery’s return also carries significant implications for the Lions’ matchup against the Washington Commanders. The Commanders have struggled to contain the run all season, ranking near the bottom in terms of yards allowed per carry. This presents a golden opportunity for the Lions to exploit Washington’s defensive weaknesses, especially with Montgomery’s physical running style and ability to break tackles. The Lions’ offense is already formidable, but adding Montgomery to the mix gives them a new level of versatility and power in the backfield. As they head into this crucial playoff game, Montgomery’s presence could be the key to propelling the Lions forward in their quest for a Super Bowl victory.
