The Detroit Lions inconsistent usage of veteran running back David Montgomery has been well-covered over the final weeks of the season. Now, a new problem has arisen with the veteran missing practice unexpectedly. According to ESPN's Eric Woodyard, Montgomery missed Tuesday's practice with an undisclosed illness. While it remains early in the week, this is a huge concern when Detroit is officially in desperation mode and slated to play against the Minnesota Vikings on Christmas Day.
To make the 2025 playoff field, the Lions must win out, needing the Green Bay Packers to drop both of their final two games. This demands an incredible offensive focus that needs Montgomery on the field, even if the back's usage isn't reaching expectations. Montgomery hasn't had more than eight carries in any of the last six games, but remains an incredibly important piece of the offense if the Lions are going to make a miracle run.
Missing time with an illness would obviously derail this and only build upon the recent trade chatter. Detroit's refusal to utilize the accomplished veteran with the season on the line has understandably created a narrative that this could be Montgomery's final season in Detroit. Whether or not the Lions manage to make the playoffs, the final two games of the year must be used to establish the run and again make Montgomery a consistent contributor.
Lions Running Back David Montgomery Misses Tuesday's Practice with Illness
The Lions' hopes of Montgomery having time to recover aren't helped by the fact that they will play in Thursday's triple header in a must-win against the Vikings. While this isn't ideal, coming off a heartbreaking loss against the Pittsburgh Steelers, Minnesota is dealing with a serious injury of its own. Quarterback J.J. McCarthy will miss Thursday's game, putting Max Brosmer in the lineup and giving Detroit's struggling defense a great chance to keep playoff hopes alive.
Having a healthy backfield would drastically increase this as well, with Minnesota's rushing defense ranked 24th in the league. The Vikings have given up 127 rushing yards a game and struggled to contain even average rushing attacks, making this the perfect get-right game for Montgomery and a struggling Detroit rushing attack.
The Lions and Vikings are slated to kick off at 4:30 PM EST on Christmas Day, leaving little time for recovery. Still, there is hope that Montgomery is able to return and help the Lions in a must-win game. Green Bay will play later in the weekend, taking on the Baltimore Ravens at 8:00 PM EST.