David Montgomery is set to return for the Detroit Lions’ playoff campaign, while the possibility of Aidan Hutchinson’s comeback remains open. This news brings a wave of optimism to the Lions as they prepare for the postseason.
According to Lions head coach Dan Campbell, Montgomery is expected to be ready for action in the Divisional Round. The talented running back has been sidelined since Week 15 due to an MCL tear sustained during a game against the Buffalo Bills.
Initially, there were concerns that Montgomery would require surgery, potentially ending his season. However, after consulting with multiple specialists, he chose to forgo the operation. Hopes were high for his return in Week 18 against the Minnesota Vikings, but he was ultimately unable to play.
Montgomery has been a key contributor to one of the league’s most effective running back tandems alongside Jahmyr Gibbs. This sixth-year player has amassed 775 rushing yards at an impressive 4.2 yards per carry, complemented by 36 receptions for 341 yards. His 12 rushing touchdowns rank him eighth among all NFL running backs this season.
Despite Montgomery’s absence, the Lions have thrived. They achieved a perfect 3-0 record in the three games he missed, scoring no less than 31 points in each victory. Gibbs stepped up, rushing for over 100 yards in every game and impressively scoring four touchdowns in the recent win over the Vikings, which secured the top seed in the NFC.
As Montgomery’s return approaches, the situation surrounding Aidan Hutchinson remains uncertain. The standout edge rusher has not played since Week 6 due to a broken fibula and tibia, but reports suggest he could make a comeback if the Lions progress deep into the playoffs.
Campbell refrained from setting expectations for Hutchinson’s return during his Tuesday press conference, yet he did not dismiss the possibility. “He has a season-ending injury,” Campbell acknowledged, “but if anyone can bounce back, it would be Aidan.”
Hutchinson had emerged as a top contender for Defensive Player of the Year early in the season, recording 7.5 sacks in just five games. His absence has been felt, as he currently leads the team in sacks by 3.5. The Lions’ defense has struggled at times, allowing at least 31 points in three of their last four games before their recent 31-9 victory over the Vikings.
In addition to Montgomery and Hutchinson, rookie cornerback Terrion Arnold and right guard Kevin Zeitler also faced injuries during the win against Minnesota. Campbell expressed optimism about their availability for the Lions’ playoff opener, indicating that their conditions are better than initially feared.
“We received good news on Zeitler and Arnold,” Campbell stated. “While I can’t guarantee their participation, the outlook is much brighter than it seemed at the time of their injuries. So, that’s encouraging.”
For the first time in franchise history, the Lions will enjoy home-field advantage in the playoffs. They are set to compete on either Saturday, January 18, or Sunday, January 19, facing off against one of the Los Angeles Rams, Vikings, Washington Commanders, or Green Bay Packers in the NFC Divisional Round.
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