The Detroit Lions received encouraging news regarding running back David Montgomery's availability for their upcoming divisional round playoff game. Head coach Dan Campbell expressed optimism that Montgomery will be ready to contribute, a significant boost for a team that has battled injuries throughout the season.

Montgomery suffered an MCL injury in Week 15, raising concerns about his availability for the remainder of the season. However, he opted against surgery and sought alternative rehabilitation methods to expedite his recovery for the playoffs. This decision appears to have paid off, much to the relief of the Lions.

During Montgomery's absence, fellow running back Jahmyr Gibbs stepped up admirably, delivering impressive performances, including a four-touchdown game in Week 18 against the Vikings that secured the Lions the top seed in the NFC. Gibbs has accumulated 365 rushing yards and 122 receiving yards with a touchdown in the past three games.

Despite Gibbs's strong performance, the Lions' offense thrives with both Montgomery and Gibbs in the backfield. Montgomery has recorded 775 rushing yards, 12 touchdowns, and 341 receiving yards this season. Their combined presence provides offensive coordinator Ben Johnson with a versatile rushing attack, complementing a potent passing game led by quarterback Jared Goff.

While the Lions anticipate Montgomery's return, they still face other injury challenges. Notably, star edge rusher Aidan Hutchinson remains sidelined with a leg fracture suffered in Week 6, with his return considered unlikely. Nevertheless, the Lions welcome any healthy players, particularly one of Montgomery's caliber and impact.

As the top seed, the Lions have a bye week before hosting the lowest remaining seed from the wild-card round, which could be the Rams, Vikings, Commanders, or Packers.