David Montgomery reveals surprising detail about media reports on his injury

The Detroit Lions are gearing up for a divisional round playoff matchup against the Washington Commanders on Saturday. Ahead of that matchup, the Lions received some positive news regarding one of their star players.

Running back David Montgomery, who suffered an MCL injury in Week 15 versus the Buffalo Bills, returned to the practice field on Tuesday for the first time since getting hurt. The Lions only held a walkthrough, but Montgomery was an estimated full participant, putting him on track to play.

Initially, the injury was feared to be season-ending. However, the running back opted for rehab instead of surgery after consulting with several different doctors, according to several reports.

Montgomery said he is confident in his recovery and "wouldn't be out there if I wasn't ready." He said his rehab was “pretty strenuous,” but was necessary if he wanted to achieve his goal of returning in the postseason.

"I think the speculation that I was getting surgery or that was kind of the end-all, be-all. Nobody really ever knew," he said, according to ESPN's Eric Woodyard.

"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."

Before the injury, Montgomery accumulated 775 rushing yards and 12 scores. The former Chicago Bear also caught 36 passes for 341 yards, combining with Pro Bowler Jahmyr Gibbs to form one of the league’s best running back duos.

While recovering, Montgomery said he’s been dreaming about returning to the Lions and helping the team reach the Super Bowl.

"I would have dreams about us going to the Super Bowl," Montgomery said. "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."

The Lions ended the regular season on a three-game win streak. The team earned the No. 1 seed in the conference and will host the Commanders on Saturday night for a chance to return to the NFC Championship Game.

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