David Montgomery is expected to play on Saturday when the Detroit Lions face the Washington Commanders in the NFC Divisional Round, after missing the final three games of the regular season due to an MCL injury. The veteran running back avoided surgery to correct the injury, but the alternative was a physically demanding rehabilitation program, which Montgomery described as “pretty strenuous,” according to ESPN’s Eric Woodyard. Montgomery was expected to need surgery after the incident, but he obtained three separate medical opinions before deciding on rehab.
“I assume the assumption that I was going to have surgery was the end of the story. “Nobody really knew,” he said. “So when it came out, I had no idea I was going to have surgery.” So the media informed me, so it was new to me, but I’m always quite sure of who I am and how I prepare.”
His comeback is great news for the Lions. Montgomery has been the thunder to Jahmyr Gibbs’ lightning in Detroit’s backfield, rushing for 775 yards and 12 touchdowns this season. In two seasons with the team, he carried for 1,790 yards in 28 games and scored 25 touchdowns. While the Lions have suffered a rash of injuries, particularly on the defensive side of the ball, they will have their most dangerous offensive players available versus Washington.
“It’ll mean a lot,” Campbell said when Montgomery returned. “[He’s] an important part of us. He’s an important part of our lives, and he reminds me of a bell cow. He’s a tone-setter. He is a catalyst, thus there is a place for him. There is a place for him here, and he will have a role in this game. So it’ll be fantastic to have him back.” Good news for Detroit, at least. Perhaps not so much for the commanders.
About The Author
