CAMPBELL BREAKS SILENCE: Dan Campbell Explains Lions’ Plan to Replace David Montgomery

Head coach Dan Campbell discussed the Detroit Lions’ choices for a backfield replacement after announcing that running back David Montgomery will need knee surgery and miss the rest of the season. Now that Montgomery is out, the Lions must continue to build offensive momentum in order to contend for the No. 1 spot in the NFC.

Jahmyr Gibbs will assume a more significant role.

When asked if he was confident that second-year running back Jahmyr Gibbs would step up to take on a heavier workload, Campbell said he was. “We have great faith in Gibbs,” Campbell remarked. “As the season has progressed, he has become more and better, and he has made many plays when given the chance. You know, dude, he made some very significant plays for us yesterday. He contributes an explosive aspect, and his pass game skills are improving, as is his run game ability.

With 1,047 running yards, 397 receiving yards, and 14 total touchdowns this season, Gibbs has been an outstanding player. He is a dynamic weapon for the Lions’ attack because of his ability to produce both on the ground and in the air. Although Campbell has faith in Gibbs’ skills, he stressed how crucial it is to control his workload. He’s going to need to use and maximize the reps in order to avoid giving him too many. We still need to be able to use intelligence with him. “The trick is that we need him,” Campbell said. The Lions will need to be careful with Gibbs’ use as he assumes a bigger role in order to make sure he stays productive for the rest of the season.

Sione Vaki and Craig Reynolds are backup options.

Campbell emphasized the significance of running back Craig Reynolds in the upcoming weeks in addition to Gibbs. With just 12 carries for 51 yards this season, Reynolds has had little opportunities. “Craig will be prepared to assist us,” Campbell stated. Reynolds hasn’t played a significant part in the offense, but when he assumes a larger role in Montgomery’s absence, his expertise may be useful.

Campbell also said that rookie Sione Vaki may play a role. Vaki has only had six carries for 14 yards this season, mostly as a special teams player. Despite his limited involvement, Campbell pointed out that Vaki could fill in and contribute to the position’s depth. “Vaki might as well,” Campbell remarked.

Going Ahead Without David Montgomery

Campbell’s faith in Gibbs, Reynolds, and Vaki offers the Lions hope even if losing David Montgomery is a devastating blow. As they continue their playoff run, the Lions will need to depend on their depth and make sure they rotate their running backs wisely.

Given that Gibbs is anticipated to play a bigger part, the Lions will want to get the most out of him while making sure Reynolds and Vaki are prepared to fill in when necessary. To replace Montgomery and maintain their aspirations of making the playoffs, the Lions will need to work together in the backfield as they get ready for the latter stretch of the regular season.