By Blessing 
The Detroit Lions are riding a wave of momentum, feeling like a team destined for greatness. With a franchise-best record of 15-2 in the regular season, the Lions have positioned themselves perfectly for a strong playoff run and a potential Super Bowl 59 appearance in New Orleans. Adding to their optimism, they’ll welcome back a key offensive player ahead of their Divisional Round game against the Washington Commanders.
“It’s refreshing,” said running back David Montgomery, per ESPN’s Eric Woodyard. “Kind of to be back in the position to where I can help the team. Yeah, I missed it, so happy to be back.”
Montgomery has been sidelined since Week 15 after suffering an MCL injury. Initially, rumors swirled that his season was over and surgery would be required. However, those speculations turned out to be false, and Montgomery is ready to rejoin the team.
Reflecting on the rumors, Montgomery addressed the situation during the ESPN interview.
“I think the speculation that I was getting surgery or that was kind of the end-all, be-all. Nobody really ever knew,” Montgomery said. “So when it got put out, I didn’t know that I was getting surgery. So the media told me, so it was news to me. But I’m always pretty confident in who I am and how I prepare.”
Lions fans are undoubtedly thrilled to see Montgomery back for what is arguably one of the most crucial games of the season. Head coach Dan Campbell shared his thoughts on Montgomery’s return, emphasizing his value to the team.
“It’ll mean a lot,” Campbell said. “Five’s a big part of us. He’s a huge part of us, and to me, he’s a bell cow. He’s somebody that is a tone-setter. He’s a catalyst, so there’s a place for him. There’s a place for him here, so there’ll be a place for him in this game. So it’s going to be good to get him back.”
Despite the team’s impressive performance this season, Campbell has resisted framing it as a “Super Bowl or bust” year. His focus remains on preparing for the immediate challenge—the Commanders.
Still, the possibility of a Super Bowl appearance has been on the minds of many players, including Montgomery.
“I would have dreams about us going to the Super Bowl,” Montgomery admitted. “It’s crazy. And the closer we get, the more vivid they become. I have them like often. But I don’t know how it’s going to look with us getting there, but I know we’re going to be there.”
If the Lions can take care of business against Washington on Saturday, they’ll be just one win away from their first-ever Super Bowl berth.