Lions Share Injury Updates on Carlton Davis, David Montgomery, and Ifeatu Melifonwu Ahead of Week 16 Against Chicago Bears - Latest Sports Updates

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During Week 15 against the Buffalo Bills, the Lions suffered three major defensive injuries. Alim McNeill tore his right ACL, and Khalil Dorsey broke his leg in a

Dan Campbell provided updates on the injury statuses of Carlton Davis, David Montgomery, and Ifeatu Melifonwu.

During Week 15 against the Buffalo Bills, the Lions suffered three major defensive injuries. Alim McNeill tore his right ACL, and Khalil Dorsey broke his leg in a manner reminiscent of Aidan Hutchinson’s Week 6 injury. Both injuries were deemed season-ending. Carlton Davis fractured his jaw and was placed on IR along with McNeill and Dorsey. NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport suggested Davis could return in six weeks, potentially for the NFC Championship Game, if Detroit advances that far.

Lions injury updates: Carlton Davis, David Montgomery, Ifeatu Melifonwu

Before Friday’s practice, Dan Campbell shared his thoughts on Montgomery’s and Davis’s injuries. Regarding Montgomery’s MCL injury, Campbell said, “We may see where this thing goes,” hinting at optimism about his recovery. He mentioned decisions still need to be made, including whether to place him on IR.

About Davis, Campbell admitted, “It doesn’t look optimistic to get him back,” but he didn’t rule out the possibility of a late playoff return. While Campbell downplayed expectations, he acknowledged Davis’s injury history, which has followed him from Tampa Bay to Detroit. This marks the fourth consecutive season Davis will miss at least four games.

Safety Ifeatu Melifonwu (hand) began his 21-day IR return window this week. While his return against the Chicago Bears seems unlikely, Campbell noted his progress during practice, stating, “He’s gotten a little better every day… It’s good to see him out there.”

Jalen Reeves-Maybin (neck) also started his 21-day activation period on Thursday. However, Campbell confirmed the linebacker is unlikely to play on Sunday.

Tags: Carlton Davis David Montgomery Ifeatu Melifonwu

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Lions Not Dismissing David Montgomery Return; John Cominsky Activation Unlikely The Detroit Lions are not completely dismissing the possibility of David Montgomery’s return, adding another potential player to their list of late-season comebacks. Initially, head coach Dan Campbell had confirmed that Montgomery would miss the remainder of the season due to an MCL injury, but on Wednesday, he reversed that stance. It was revealed that Montgomery sought a third opinion regarding his knee injury. Campbell explained, “David is getting another opinion. He’s already had a couple, and we’re just waiting to hear what the third one says. That’s why we haven’t placed him on injured reserve.” He further added that Montgomery’s injury is complex, and the team needs to determine its stability before moving forward. “We need to know if it’s stable, fixed, or if it will cause permanent damage,” Campbell noted, highlighting the importance of the player’s confidence in his recovery. Montgomery, after a solid stint with the Bears, has become essential to the Lions’ success over the past two seasons, pairing with Jahmyr Gibbs in a powerful backfield. As Detroit’s starting back, Montgomery has scored 25 rushing touchdowns and was on track for another 1,000-yard season. Earlier this season, the team extended Montgomery with a two-year, $18.25 million contract. While Gibbs is expected to take on a larger role down the stretch, the Lions have yet to place Montgomery on injured reserve. The running back expressed hope of returning this season. The Lions are keeping Montgomery on the 53-man roster for now. Detroit’s IR-return scenario is becoming increasingly complicated, with several players in the mix. Aidan Hutchinson could return as soon as the NFC Championship game if the Lions advance, and Carlton Davis, recovering from a broken jaw, could be back during the postseason. Safety Ifeatu Melifonwu, previously designated for return, is also moving closer to activation after being placed on IR for a second time this season. Linebackers Alex Anzalone and Derrick Barnes are not ruled out for the year, and cornerback Ennis Raestraw is eligible to return. However, defensive lineman John Cominsky, who has missed the entire season with a torn MCL, is now considered unlikely to return. His chances of reactivation appear slim after missing all of 2024 due to the injury. Cominsky, in his third year with Detroit, had started 19 games before his injury. Meanwhile, Alim McNeill, who tore his ACL, is definitely out. Despite these setbacks, the Lions remain hopeful about the players still in line for IR returns. Should Montgomery be sidelined longer, Craig Reynolds, a dependable back who has been with the Lions since 2019, is expected to see an increased role until Montgomery is ready to return — assuming he doesn’t require season-ending surgery.

December 19, 2024