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.

nfl

Is David Montgomery playing tonight? Update on Detroit Lions’ star RB for the Lions vs. Commanders Divisional Round Game

David Montgomery’s game-day status: all you need to know.

The Detroit Lions‘ top-ranked offense faces a crucial test in Saturday’s NFC Divisional Round against the Washington Commanders. With running back David Montgomery recovering from a Week 15 knee injury, his potential return could be a turning point.

Montgomery’s decision to rehab instead of opting for surgery sparked optimism, but the question remains: will he suit up for this high-stakes matchup?

Is David Montgomery available for the Lions vs. Commanders game tonight?

Yes, David Montgomery is officially back to the Lions squad. After weeks of uncertainty following his knee injury in Week 15 against the Buffalo Bills, Montgomery is set to return for the Detroit Lions’ Divisional Round matchup against the Washington Commanders. Montgomery practiced in full earlier this week and confirmed he’s ready to play.

“I wouldn’t be out there if I wasn’t ready,” Montgomery said. Addressing earlier speculation about surgery, he clarified, “Nobody really ever knew. The media told me I was getting surgery, so it was news to me. But I’m always pretty confident in who I am and how I prepare.”

David Montgomery officially is off the Lions’ injury report and good to go Saturday night. pic.twitter.com/11NbCdyUXF
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) January 16, 2025

Head coach Dan Campbell expressed excitement about Montgomery’s return, emphasizing his impact on the team: “Five’s a big part of us. He’s a tone-setter and a catalyst. There’s a place for him in this game, and it’s going to be good to get him back.”

Montgomery’s return couldn’t come at a better time. With their offense pivotal to postseason success, Detroit’s rushing attack regains its edge just as the Lions push for their first Super Bowl appearance.

Why is David Montgomery key to the Lions offense?

David Montgomery’s return is massive for the Detroit Lions as they gear up to face the Washington Commanders. Known for his bruising running style, Montgomery has been a cornerstone of Detroit’s top-ranked offense this season.

After suffering an MCL injury in Week 15, there were concerns that his season was over. However, Montgomery opted for rehab over surgery, allowing him to recover in time for the playoffs. On Tuesday, he practiced in full and declared himself ready: “It’s refreshing. Kind of to be back in the position to where I can help the team, yeah, I missed it, so happy to be back,” Montgomery said via ESPN’s Eric Woodyard.

Mood because David Montgomery is back#OnePride pic.twitter.com/OqSr4HxrWG
— 𝔗𝔥𝔢 𝔇𝔢𝔱𝔯𝔬𝔦𝔱 𝔗𝔦𝔪𝔢𝔰 📰 (@the_det_times) January 15, 2025

Head coach Dan Campbell emphasized Montgomery’s importance: “Five’s a big part of us. He’s a huge part of us, and to me, he’s a bell cow. He’s somebody that is a tone-setter. He’s a catalyst, so there’s a place for him in this game. It’s going to be good to get him back.”

Detroit’s sixth-ranked rushing offense will be crucial against a Commanders defense ranked 30th in stopping the run. Montgomery’s ability to break tackles and wear down defenses makes him a key weapon in Saturday’s game plan.

David Montgomery’s 2024 regular season stats highlight his red zone dominance

In 14 games this season, Montgomery racked up 775 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns on 185 carries, showcasing his consistency and value. His physical running style complements rookie Jahmyr Gibbs, creating one of the most balanced backfields in the league. The pairing powers an offense that ranks as the NFL’s top-scoring unit.

With 36 receptions and an average of 4.2 yards per carry, Montgomery also proved his versatility, making him a valuable asset on the field and a strong pick for fantasy football enthusiasts.

(Image: Imagn Images)

David Montgomery

NFL

Will David Montgomery Play today

Natasha Bose

I write about sports because, well, it brings in the big bucks! I’m not some lifelong analyst or stats guru, truth being told, you’ve probably never heard of me!—I just know how to research, write, and make things sound good. That’s the job!
Got into sports media the same way most people do: by (fortunate) accident. Started with SEO writing, took on a few sports gigs, and now here we are! I cover games, trades, player drama—whatever needs words.
Favorite part? The chaos. One day it’s a blockbuster trade, the next it’s a goat running onto the field. Never boring.
Message to readers: If you want deep analysis, there are people for that. If you want sharp, no-BS writing that actually makes sense, stick around.