The Detroit Lions‘ already disappointing 48–42 loss to the Buffalo Bills on Sunday got worse on Monday, as reports surfaced that running back David Montgomery had suffered a torn MCL and is now out indefinitely. According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, Montgomery will undergo further testing on his knee to determine the full extent of the damage, but the team is bracing for the possibility that his season could be over.
Montgomery exited the game in the second quarter after limping off the field following a key fourth-down conversion. He was seen on the sideline for the remainder of the game but did not return. The Lions’ offense, which has relied heavily on Montgomery this season, will now face a major void if the injury forces him to miss the rest of the season.
The news about Montgomery comes as part of a string of bad injury reports for the Lions. On Monday, it was revealed that defensive lineman Alim McNeill tore his ACL, cornerback Carlton Davis III fractured his jaw, and corner Khalil Dorsey suffered what is likely a season-ending ankle injury. The Lions’ defense, already dealing with multiple setbacks, is now left to patch up even more holes.
But losing Montgomery would arguably be the most significant blow to the offense, especially as Detroit pushes for a playoff spot with a 12-2 record. The running back has been a crucial part of the team’s success this year, amassing 775 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns on 185 carries. If Montgomery’s season is indeed over, his absence would leave a major gap in a backfield that has seen solid production in 2024.
While the Lions will continue to monitor Montgomery’s condition, the reality is they are already preparing for life without one of their star players. The next few days will be critical for the team as they evaluate their options at running back and attempt to keep their playoff hopes alive, despite mounting injuries on both sides of the ball.
For now, Detroit fans can only wait to hear more from the team about Montgomery’s status, but the 2024 season is already shaping up to be a test of the Lions’ resilience in the face of adversity.
