David Montgomery's potential return from injury gives hope to the Detroit Lions as they navigate their playoff aspirations.

Why it matters: Montgomery's possible comeback could provide a significant boost to the Lions' running game and offensive production in the postseason.

What's new: The Lions have decided not to place Montgomery on injured reserve after receiving a third medical opinion on his MCL injury. There is optimism that he may avoid season-ending surgery.

• Montgomery's absence would have been a significant blow to the Lions, considering he is their second-leading rusher with 775 yards and 12 touchdowns.

Yes, but: The Lions already have a substantial number of players on injured reserve, particularly on the defensive side, which has impacted their overall depth and performance this season.

• Currently, the Lions have 21 players on injured reserve, the highest number in the league, with 16 of them being defensive players.

What to watch: The progress of Montgomery's recovery will be closely monitored over the coming weeks, especially as the Lions make a push for the playoffs.

• The team will rely on the assessments of doctors and Montgomery's own confidence in his ability to play at a high level and protect himself.

What's next: The Lions and Montgomery continue to maintain open communication regarding his injury status. The negotiation process is ongoing, and both parties are working towards a resolution that ensures Montgomery's return is celebrated extensively.

• Montgomery's teammate, Jahmyr Gibbs, who has been performing well in his absence, is ready to step up and contribute further if needed.

The bottom line: The potential return of David Montgomery provides a glimmer of hope for the Lions' playoff aspirations, adding firepower to their offense and boosting their chances of success in the postseason.

David Montgomery's potential return from injury gives hope to the Detroit Lions as they navigate their playoff aspirations.

Why it matters: Montgomery's possible comeback could provide a significant boost to the Lions' running game and offensive production in the postseason.

What's new: The Lions have decided not to place Montgomery on injured reserve after receiving a third medical opinion on his MCL injury. There is optimism that he may avoid season-ending surgery.

• Montgomery's absence would have been a significant blow to the Lions, considering he is their second-leading rusher with 775 yards and 12 touchdowns.

Yes, but: The Lions already have a substantial number of players on injured reserve, particularly on the defensive side, which has impacted their overall depth and performance this season.

• Currently, the Lions have 21 players on injured reserve, the highest number in the league, with 16 of them being defensive players.

What to watch: The progress of Montgomery's recovery will be closely monitored over the coming weeks, especially as the Lions make a push for the playoffs.

• The team will rely on the assessments of doctors and Montgomery's own confidence in his ability to play at a high level and protect himself.

What's next: The Lions and Montgomery continue to maintain open communication regarding his injury status. The negotiation process is ongoing, and both parties are working towards a resolution that ensures Montgomery's return is celebrated extensively.

• Montgomery's teammate, Jahmyr Gibbs, who has been performing well in his absence, is ready to step up and contribute further if needed.

The bottom line: The potential return of David Montgomery provides a glimmer of hope for the Lions' playoff aspirations, adding firepower to their offense and boosting their chances of success in the postseason.