Lions running back David Montgomery suffered a knee injury and is likely done for the remaining fantasy playoff schedule. We break down running backs on the waiver wire to consider in his place.
The Detroit Lions have been the walking wounded this season, and things got worse coming out of Week 15. Running back David Montgomery suffered a knee injury and Ian Rapoport is reporting he has torn his MCL. He is getting more tests to determine the severity of the injury, but he could be out for the rest of the regular season and playoffs.
Fantasy football impact
Even if the injury is just an MCL sprain, Montgomery would likely be done for the fantasy football playoffs. Most leagues had their opening round this past weekend and are headed into the semifinals in Week 16.
While Jahmyr Gibbs is the future for the Lions, Montgomery has been a huge contributor this season. He’s scored in double digits all but twice this season and ranks sixth in fantasy points over the past four weeks. Gibbs ranks third in that group.
If you have Gibbs on your fantasy roster, you’re in good shape as he should see a boost in snaps. If you have Montgomery, you’re left scrambling for your Week 16 fantasy playoff matchup.
Looking through the waiver wire, there are not many options. Titans running back Tyjae Spears is rostered in 44% of Yahoo! fantasy leagues and Tony Pollard’s availability opens the door for some value. Browns running back Jerome Ford is rostered in 43% of leagues and with Nick Chubb done for the year, he’ll continue to be the lead back in Cleveland. Justice Hill is rostered in 17% of leagues and has some boom or bust potential.
