There will be no David Montgomery sighting at Detroit Lions practice on Thursday. His ongoing absence with a rib injury could very well keep him out of Monday night’s matchup with the visiting Las Vegas Raiders, as well.
Head coach Dan Campbell indicated in his press conference before practice that Montgomery would not practice. Campbell noted of Montgomery, “he just continues to improve” and “getting better” but the team is still holding him back from practice.
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Montgomery left the Week 6 win over Tampa Bay with what has been revealed to be bruised cartilage in the ribs. He has not practiced since and missed the Week 7 trip to Baltimore. Jahmyr Gibbs started in his place against the Ravens and gained 126 total yards from scrimmage, scoring Detroit’s only touchdown in the loss.
Craig Reynolds is the only other running back on the active roster. Detroit elevated Devine Ozigbo from the practice squad in each of the last two weeks. The Lions also added Jermar Jefferson to the practice squad this week.
Because Detroit has a bye after the Monday night date with the Raiders, there is a common belief that Montgomery will not play in Week 8 to further rest up and heal over the bye.