The Detroit Lions’ Backfield Dilemma: Who Will Step Up After David Montgomery's Injury?

The Detroit Lions are facing a critical setback as star running back David Montgomery has been sidelined for the rest of the 2024 season with an MCL injury sustained during Sunday’s matchup against the Bills. This unfortunate injury will require surgery, leaving a sizable vacancy in the Lions' offense as they look to stay competitive in the NFC.

Over the past two seasons, Montgomery has had a history of minor injuries, with rookie Jahmyr Gibbs often stepping up as the main ball carrier in those instances. However, the team has never had to navigate a long-term absence for Montgomery, prompting fans and analysts to wonder who will benefit the most in terms of carries.

The Rising Star: Sione Vaki

Many believe that the young running back Sione Vaki could be the leading candidate to step into a larger role. Despite only having six carries this season primarily due to his contributions on special teams, the Lions chose Vaki for his significant upside in the draft. With Montgomery out, the Lions may need to accelerate Vaki’s development, particularly if they want him to play a crucial role later in the playoffs.

The Reliable Veteran: Craig Reynolds

Another option for the Lions is Craig Reynolds, who has also seen limited action with just 12 carries this year. While Reynolds has experience, there seems to have been a hesitancy from the coaching staff to increase his workload significantly. In past instances, they sought external help rather than relying solely on Reynolds when Montgomery was injured earlier in his career.

External Options Abound

The Lions might also explore other avenues, potentially looking to claim a running back from another team's practice squad. Analysts have suggested various names that the Lions could consider, with discussions revolving around elevating talent to fill Montgomery's void. The future dynamics of the Lions' running game will ultimately depend on how the coaching staff decides to address this sudden gap.

The Bottom Line

The biggest question remains: Who will be the focal point of the Lions' running attack moving forward? Will they lean on the untested but promising Sione Vaki, give Craig Reynolds a chance to shine as a reliable contributor, or search outside their roster for a solution? As the Lions make these crucial decisions, fans will be watching closely to see how they adapt without their starting running back. Stay tuned for updates as the Lions navigate this significant challenge!