The Detroit Lions ’ hopes that David Montgomery could return from a knee injury originally thought to require season-ending surgery got a boost Thursday as the running back reportedly received a medical opinion allowing him to rehab the knee instead.

The Detroit Lions could have the services of running back David Montgomery sooner than expected. Following a loss last week to the Buffalo Bills, it was reported the talented running back was seeking opinions regarding how to proceed after suffering a MCL injury in Week 15.

After #Lions RB David Montgomery spent the last few days consulting with medical experts, sources are now optimistic that the star avoided the season-ending surgery that was initially feared. Montgomery will rehab with the hope that he can return at some point this postseason. pic.twitter.com/epN40XUoPy

The Detroit Lions placed Alim McNeill, Carlton Davis III and Khalil Dorsey on IR Tuesday, two days after they left the Bills game with injuries.

According to a report from NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, Lions running back David Montgomery is eyeing a return in the divisional round of the playoffs. “He now is going to rehab with a realistic goal of being back for the divisional round of the playoffs,

The Detroit Lions have battled through adversity all season, with injuries sidelining several of their key players. According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, who appeared on NFL GameDay this morning, the Lions are set to receive a significant boost heading into the playoffs.

The Detroit Lions have been one of the best teams in the NFL this season, and their rushing attack has been a major reason why. David Montgomery and Jahmyr Gibbs have dominated on the ground, which has helped the Lions jump out to a 12-2 record despite missing a ton of key players.