Detroit Lions running back David Montgomery (5) runs for yards before being tackled Detroit during the game against the Buffalo Bills at Ford Field in Detroit Sunday, Dec. 15, 2024. Montgomery suffered an MCL injury to his right knee in the 48-42 loss to the Buffalo Bills.

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Rejoice, Lions fans: Lions HC Dan Campbell shares huge update on David Montgomery’s availability

Montgomery returns; injury updates on Hutchinson, more

David Montgomery‘s return is on the horizon. Lions head coach Dan Campbell confirmed on Tuesday that the running back is expected to be ready when Detroit opens its postseason campaign in the Divisional Round.

“I do,” Campbell said, directly addressing whether Montgomery would play.

Montgomery has been sidelined since Week 15 after suffering an MCL injury in a loss to the Buffalo Bills. While surgery initially seemed likely, Montgomery sought multiple medical opinions and chose rehab instead. That decision now looks like a game-changer for Detroit’s playoff chances.

The Lions, sitting at the top of the NFC with a 15-2 record, secured a bye for Wild Card Weekend. They’ll host their Divisional Round matchup on Jan. 18 or Jan. 19.

Montgomery’s impact on Detroit’s offense

Montgomery has been vital to the Lions’ success this season. In 14 games, he tallied 775 rushing yards, 12 touchdowns, and averaged 4.2 yards per carry. He also contributed 36 receptions for 341 yards. His 12 rushing touchdowns ranked eighth among all NFL running backs this season.

🚨DETROIT LIONS INJURY UPDATE🚨

– Montgomery expected to be back

– Terrion and Zeitler better than expected
– Pat O’Connor worse than expected
– Carlton Davis and Barnes done for the year

– Aidan Hutchinson ????#OnePride
🎥 via @Lions pic.twitter.com/Mzt4z9dpAC
— Spencer Raxter (@Spenmorax) January 7, 2025

Paired with rookie standout Jahmyr Gibbs, Montgomery forms one of the league’s most productive backfield duos. Even in Montgomery’s absence, Gibbs stepped up, recording at least 100 rushing yards in three consecutive games. The Lions went 3-0 during that stretch, scoring 31 or more points in each win.

Injury updates: Hutchinson, Arnold, and others

While Montgomery’s return is confirmed, the status of other key Lions players remains uncertain:

Aidan Hutchinson: The defensive end has been out since Week 6 with a broken fibula and tibia. Campbell emphasized the severity of Hutchinson’s injury but left the door slightly open for a potential return. “He has a season-ending injury, but if anybody can come back from this, it would be Aidan,” Campbell stated. Hutchinson still leads the team with 7.5 sacks, a testament to his early-season dominance.
Terrion Arnold: The rookie cornerback suffered a foot contusion in the Week 18 win against Minnesota. Campbell is optimistic Arnold will play in the playoffs but stopped short of guaranteeing it.
Kevin Zeitler: The right guard injured his hamstring in the same game. Campbell described Zeitler’s condition as promising but uncertain.
Derrick Barnes and Carlton Davis: Neither will return this season, Campbell confirmed. Barnes is dealing with a knee injury, while Davis is sidelined with a jaw fracture.

Lions prepare for their first home-field playoff advantage

The Lions will play their Divisional Round game at Ford Field, marking their first-ever home-field advantage in the playoffs. Their opponent will be one of the Los Angeles Rams, Minnesota Vikings, Washington Commanders, or Green Bay Packers.

Detroit’s defense remains a concern, especially with Hutchinson’s absence. The unit ranks tied for 23rd in sacks and allowed 31 points in three of their last four games before the season finale. However, their offense has consistently carried the load, thanks to a balanced attack led by Montgomery and Gibbs.

Lions RB David Montgomery suffered torn MCL and could be out for the rest of the season. (via @rapsheet) pic.twitter.com/B53SzeOTcJ
— NFL (@NFL) December 16, 2024

With Montgomery back in action, Detroit looks poised for a deep playoff run. Fans will have to wait until Jan. 18 or 19 to see how it all unfolds.

Image: Imagn

Arnold

David Montgomery

David Montgomery Injury Update

Hutchinson

Natasha Bose

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