The Detroit Lions are entering the divisional round of the NFL playoffs with renewed optimism, buoyed by the return of key players who had been sidelined due to injuries. With a remarkable 15-2 record that secured them the NFC North title and the No. 1 seed in the NFC, the Lions are primed to make a deep playoff run, but their journey has not been without its challenges. The 2024 season has been one of triumph, but it has also been marked by adversity, particularly on the defensive side of the ball, where the team has battled through a series of injuries.
Despite these obstacles, the Lions have persevered, and now, with the postseason upon them, they are getting some much-needed reinforcements. The return of running back David Montgomery and rookie cornerback Terrion Arnold is a massive boost for the team as they prepare for their upcoming divisional round matchup. These returns are a key part of Detroit’s strategy to maintain their momentum and take advantage of the extra week off afforded to them by their first-round bye.
Lions’ Historic Regular Season
Before diving into the specifics of the injuries and their recovery, it’s worth reflecting on the exceptional performance that the Lions have had throughout the regular season. Ending with the best record in franchise history at 15-2, the Lions have defied expectations and put together one of the most impressive seasons in recent memory. They secured the NFC North title, edging out the Minnesota Vikings (who finished with a 14-3 record), and clinched the No. 1 seed in the NFC.
The significance of this achievement cannot be overstated. The Lions’ 15-win season marked the pinnacle of their 94-year history, making it a season for the ages. Their success in securing the NFC’s top seed also provided them with the advantage of a bye week in the first round of the playoffs, giving them the opportunity to rest, recover, and prepare for the divisional round.
However, despite their impressive regular-season record, the Lions’ playoff berth was not fully secured until the very last week of the season, where they needed a Week 18 victory to clinch the division. This victory not only solidified their position as NFC North champions but also guaranteed them the No. 1 seed, putting them in the driver’s seat to make a deep playoff run.
Injury Concerns Heading into the Playoffs
Like many NFL teams, the Lions’ path to success has been complicated by injuries, especially on defense. The team has had to overcome the loss of several key players on the defensive side of the ball, which has tested the depth and resilience of the roster. Despite these challenges, head coach Dan Campbell has continued to keep the team focused on the next man up, and the Lions have maintained their high level of play.
Now, with the playoffs on the horizon, the Lions are hopeful that some of these injured players will be able to return to the field and contribute to their postseason success. David Montgomery, one of the team’s most important offensive weapons, and Terrion Arnold, a promising rookie cornerback, are both expected to be ready to play in the divisional round, a development that will undoubtedly give the Lions a much-needed boost.
David Montgomery’s Injury and Return
David Montgomery’s injury, which occurred during the Lions’ Week 15 loss to the Buffalo Bills, was a cause for concern. Montgomery suffered a left medial collateral ligament (MCL) sprain in his knee, a serious injury that typically requires significant time to recover from. Initially, there were fears that the injury could sideline him for the remainder of the regular season, but Montgomery opted for a rehabilitation approach rather than surgery, which allowed him to recover more quickly. His decision seems to have paid off, as he has been able to return to the field in time for the playoffs.
When asked about Montgomery’s availability for the divisional round, Campbell simply responded with an enthusiastic “I do,” indicating his confidence that the running back will be ready to contribute when the Lions take the field against either the Minnesota Vikings or the Los Angeles Rams. Montgomery’s return is a huge lift for the Lions’ offense, which has been dynamic throughout the season. His ability to run between the tackles and provide a steady ground game will complement the team’s potent passing attack, led by quarterback Jared Goff. Montgomery has been a workhorse for the Lions, and his return will add another dimension to their already explosive offense.
Terrion Arnold’s Injury and Recovery
Along with Montgomery, another key player expected to return for the divisional round is rookie cornerback Terrion Arnold. Arnold had emerged as an important piece of the Lions’ defensive secondary this season, but his playoff hopes were put in jeopardy after he suffered what appeared to be a serious leg injury during the Lions’ final regular-season game. The injury caused concern, but Arnold has expressed confidence that he will be ready to play in the divisional round, even if Campbell did not guarantee his participation.
Arnold’s return is especially important for the Lions’ defense, which has faced significant challenges throughout the season, particularly in the secondary. The rookie cornerback has shown flashes of promise, and his ability to contribute in the postseason could prove to be a crucial factor in the team’s playoff success. With Arnold back in the lineup, the Lions will have added depth and talent in the secondary, which will be vital when facing teams with high-powered offenses like the Vikings or the Rams.
Kevin Zeitler’s Injury Update
In addition to Montgomery and Arnold, the Lions are also dealing with an injury to safety Kevin Zeitler, who was hurt in the same game against the Vikings that saw Arnold go down. While there is less certainty surrounding Zeitler’s status for the divisional round, Campbell has indicated that the team is hopeful he will be able to contribute as well. Zeitler has been a key player in the Lions’ secondary, and his presence would certainly help bolster the defense heading into the playoffs.
What’s at Stake for the Lions
As the No. 1 seed in the NFC, the Lions are in a prime position to make a deep playoff run, with home-field advantage throughout the postseason. They will need to win just two home games to reach their first-ever Super Bowl, and having a healthy and fully prepared roster is crucial to that goal. The extra week of rest provided by the first-round bye has given the team the opportunity to heal and regroup, and the return of key players like Montgomery and Arnold is a promising sign as the Lions look to make a push for the title.
With the divisional round fast approaching, the Lions are focused on maintaining their momentum and ensuring that they are ready to take advantage of this rare opportunity. The team has demonstrated resilience in the face of adversity throughout the season, and with several key players returning to the lineup, the Lions are poised to make a serious run at the Super Bowl.
Conclusion
The Detroit Lions enter the NFL playoffs with renewed optimism and the hope that their injury-riddled defense and offense will be fully restored in time for their divisional round matchup. With key players like David Montgomery and Terrion Arnold set to return, the Lions are in a strong position to make a deep playoff run. Having already achieved their best regular-season record in franchise history, the team’s sights are now set on capturing a Super Bowl title. The addition of these two crucial players will only improve their chances, and with home-field advantage, the Lions are primed for a historic playoff run.
