December 20, 2024

Simon Inah

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.

Lions Not Excluding David Montgomery’s Return; John Cominsky Activation Unlikely The Detroit Lions are...