Lions' Campbell 'Optimistic' About David Montgomery's Injury Outlook, Playoff Return

Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell isn't closing the door on a return for running back David Montgomery before the 2024 NFL season fully concludes.

Campbell told reporters the Lions are "optimistic" about Montgomery based on recent visits he had with doctors for his sprained MCL:

The initial fear was that the sixth-year veteran would be sidelined for the remainder of the campaign, including the playoffs. However, NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reported Thursday there's a growing belief he can suit up again after taking some time to rehab.

Detroit's list of injuries, particularly on defense, is leading fans to grow concerned about the team's championship pursuit. It's impossible for a general manager to build enough depth to compensate for this many absences.

Campbell nevertheless remains defiant. He provided an epic soundbite in an interview on 97.1 The Ticket's Costa & Jansen two days after the Lions' 48-42 loss to the Buffalo Bills.

Having Montgomery in the backfield at some point in the postseason would be a huge boost for the offense.

Since signing with Detroit in 2023, the 27-year-old has run for 1,790 yards and 25 touchdowns, and he and Jahmyr Gibbs have formed a potent tandem on the ground. The Lions are sixth in rushing, averaging 143.7 yards per game.

Placing Montgomery on injured reserve would rule him out through the NFC Wild Card Round since Detroit has just three games left in the regular season. Having declined to exercise that option to this point is an indicator as to the team's hope he won't need that long to recuperate.