The Detroit Lions have faced significant injury setbacks throughout the 2024 season, and December has only exacerbated their challenges. While injuries are a natural part of football, the Lions have found themselves hit especially hard this year. Heading into their December 15 matchup with the Buffalo Bills, the team was without four starting linebackers, which added to the adversity they were already facing. Despite this, the Lions managed to come incredibly close to securing a win, losing in a high-scoring game 48-42. The team’s ability to remain competitive despite their injury struggles showcased their depth and resilience.
In addition to the ongoing defensive injury issues, the Lions also suffered a significant blow to their offense. Running back David Montgomery, who had been playing an important role in the team’s rushing attack, sustained a knee injury during the game. On Monday, head coach Dan Campbell announced that Montgomery had torn his MCL and would require surgery, officially ending his season. This news came as a shock to many, as Montgomery had managed to play through the injury during the game, leading some to believe that the injury was not as serious as it ultimately turned out to be. His toughness on the field had given fans hope that he would be able to return soon, but the revelation that his season was over was a blow to both Montgomery and the team.
However, there was a glimmer of optimism from Montgomery just a few days later, when he made a public appearance at a coat drive event in Detroit on December 17. Speaking with reporters, Montgomery revealed that he was still hopeful about the possibility of playing again this season. His comments contradicted earlier reports and showed that the Lions had not yet placed him on injured reserve (IR). When asked about the possibility of returning to the field this year, Montgomery said, “I hope so,” expressing his desire to continue contributing to the team in some capacity.
Montgomery’s upbeat attitude also extended to his personal life. When asked how he was feeling, he responded with a positive outlook, saying, “I’m good. I’m alive. I’m well. I can breathe. My son’s healthy. My family’s healthy. I’m good.” His words seemed to suggest that, while he was disappointed by the injury, he was maintaining a healthy perspective and was focused on the bigger picture.
In a related development, the Lions made several other roster moves on Tuesday, December 18, placing several players on injured reserve. Among those added to IR were defensive lineman Alim McNeill, cornerback Carlton Davis, and cornerback Khalil Dorsey. Notably, Montgomery’s name was not included on the list, which raised eyebrows among some analysts and fans. The omission of Montgomery from IR created some speculation about his potential return this season.
Brad Berreman, an NFL analyst for SideLion Report, weighed in on the situation, suggesting that Montgomery’s absence from the IR list might be significant. He noted that while it could be seen as a procedural move related to roster spots for players on IR who may be able to return this season, it was unusual and likely not a coincidence. “There’s not a lot of good injury news for the Lions right now,” Berreman wrote in a December 18 feature. “Montgomery possibly being able to play again this season is in that category, however unexpectedly after how the news evolved on Monday.”
Despite the challenges, Montgomery’s hope for a potential return this season could provide a much-needed boost to the Lions, especially as they continue to navigate the rest of their schedule. With the Lions’ defense already stretched thin due to injuries, the team could use any additional help on offense as they continue to compete in a tough NFC playoff race.
While Montgomery’s injury and potential recovery remain a major storyline, the Lions are also focused on addressing their ongoing depth issues across both sides of the ball. As the season progresses, the team will need to continue to rely on their resilience and depth in order to remain competitive. The coaching staff, led by Dan Campbell, has done a commendable job keeping the team motivated and fighting through adversity, but the return of key players—like Montgomery—could be the difference between a playoff berth and an early exit.
The Lions’ situation highlights the unpredictability and harsh realities of the NFL, where injuries are a constant threat and can derail even the most promising seasons. However, the team’s ability to stay competitive, despite the absence of several key players, speaks volumes about their depth and the culture that Campbell and his staff have built. With a hopeful outlook from Montgomery and the possibility of his return later in the season, the Lions still have something to look forward to, despite the numerous setbacks.
As the Lions continue to manage their injury woes, they will also need to keep a close eye on their remaining games. The upcoming matchups will be crucial in determining their playoff chances, and the team’s ability to adapt and adjust to the absence of important players will be tested. While the Lions have already shown great resilience, the next few weeks will be pivotal in determining whether their depth and determination will be enough to carry them through.
Ultimately, while the Lions’ injury list is extensive, there is still hope. Montgomery’s potential return, even if unexpected, is a ray of light for the team, and his optimism could serve as a rallying point for both the players and fans. With the playoffs still within reach, the Lions will continue to fight, proving that even in the face of adversity, they are a team to be reckoned with.
