Dan Campbell Opens Door for David Montgomery Return With Surprise Injury Update

Earlier this week, the Detroit Lions were dealt a devastating blow to their offense as it was reported that running back David Montgomery would miss the rest of the season due to a season-ending knee injury.

Montgomery suffered an MCL injury in last week’s loss at home to the Buffalo Bills. The thought of not having the veteran running back for the rest of the season and playoffs is a huge loss for the Lions’ offense and running game.

However, the veteran running back provided a glimmer of hope on Tuesday, telling reporters at his coat that he hopes he can return for the stretch run.

On Wednesday, Lions head coach Dan Campbell passed along a similar update to the media, which should encourage the Detroit fanbase.

Lions News: David Montgomery To Get Third Option on Knee Injury

According to Tim Twentyman, Campbell said Montgomery is getting a third option on his knee which is why he hasn’t been placed on injured reserve yet.

The fact that Montgomery is still seeking opinions and not on IR is a hopeful sign that he could return soon or in the playoffs. Montgomery is part of a dynamic running back duo in the Lions’ backfield along with Jahmyr Gibbs, which has helped Detroit be one of the better well-rounded offenses in the league.

This season, the Lions are ranked sixth in rushing (143.7 yards per game), but second in rushing touchdowns (23) behind the Philadelphia Eagles (26) and Bills (28). Montgomery has scored almost half of those touchdowns (12) while contributing 1,116 scrimmage yards.

The Lions will certainly miss Montgomery’s presence heading into this weekend’s game against the Chicago Bears. However, Detroit’s ground attack should not skip a beat with Gibbs leading the way.

Campbell has already announced how the Lions will replace Montgomery's production, which won't be easy as they will have to depend on Craig Reynolds and rookie Sione Vaki.

That said if the Lions can get past the Bears on Sunday and finish the regular season out strong to hopefully capture the No. 1 seed in the NFC, Montgomery, and the other injured Lions could return shortly.

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