The status of David Montgomery, the running back for the Detroit Lions, is uncertain as the team prepares for their Week 17 matchup against the Minnesota Vikings. Montgomery has been listed as questionable due to an illness that emerged late in the week. After a full practice on Monday, he missed Tuesday”s session but returned to a limited workout on Wednesday, prompting the questionable designation.
As the Lions gear up for this critical contest on Christmas Day, updates on Montgomery”s availability are eagerly awaited. According to NFL Network reporter Mike Garafolo, Montgomery is anticipated to play despite his illness. Garafolo noted, “Lions RB David Montgomery, listed as questionable with an illness, is expected to go.”
While we lack a definitive confirmation on his playing status, there is a good likelihood that he will participate. It is uncommon for a player to miss a game due to illness, especially considering the significance of this game for the Lions” playoff aspirations. Montgomery”s limited participation on Wednesday may also indicate progress in his recovery.
When considering whether to start or sit Montgomery in fantasy lineups, the decision becomes complicated. This season has been challenging for him, and he is on track to record the lowest rushing yards of his career. Currently, Montgomery ranks as RB30 in terms of fantasy points per game, placing him in the category of a fringe flex option. The emergence of Jahmyr Gibbs has further complicated matters, as the Lions have increasingly involved him in the offense. Montgomery has not exceeded eight carries in any game since Week 11, and his involvement in the passing game has also been limited, ranking him as RB47 over that span.
The matchup against the Vikings does not favor Montgomery either, as they have allowed the 12th-fewest fantasy points per game to running backs this season. In their last encounter, Montgomery managed 40 rushing yards and one touchdown, along with two receptions for 10 yards. However, due to his limited opportunities, it may be prudent to keep him on the bench this week.
In summary, while Montgomery”s expected return provides some hope for Lions fans and fantasy managers alike, the reality of his current workload and the matchup suggests that sitting him might be the wiser choice for Week 17.
