The Detroit Lions could get a big part of their offense back for Saturday’s NFC Divisional Round clash against the Washington Commanders.
Running back David Montogomery practiced fully in Detroit’s walkthrough and appears headed for a return to the lineup on Saturday. Montgomery tore his MCL and missed the remainder of the regular season. He was initially believed to be out for the postseason, too, but Montgomery sought outside opinions and eventually chose an aggressive rehab over surgery.
“It’s refreshing,” Montgomery said via Eric Woodyard of ESPN. “Kind of to be back in the position to where I can help the team, yeah, I missed it, so happy to be back.”
Fortunately for Detroit, it had former first-round pick Jahmyr Gibbs. Gibbs’ usage increased over the final three weeks and he looked like one of the NFL’s top running backs. But the Lions are at their best when they have Gibbs and Montgomery.
The six-year pro rushed for 775 yards and 12 touchdowns in the regular season. Montgomery’s punishing style is the perfect complement to Gibbs’ all-around ability.
Head coach Dan Campbell is thrilled about Montgomery’s return.
“It’ll mean a lot,” Campbell said. “Five’s a big part of us. He’s a huge part of us, and to me, he’s a bell cow. He’s somebody that is a tone-setter. He’s a catalyst, so there’s a place for him.”
Detroit finished the regular season with the NFL’s fifth-ranked rushing offense, averaging 146 rushing yards per game. On the flip side, Washington’s run defense ranked 27th, allowing over 135 rushing yards per game.
Washington’s ability or inability to stop the Lions’ running game will be critical in determining Saturday’s winner.