Bigger Than Football: David Montgomery’s Emotional Return Home
For most Detroit Lions players, Sunday’s matchup with the Cincinnati Bengals is about football. But for running back David Montgomery, it represents something far more personal.
Speaking with Kay Adams earlier this week, Montgomery opened up about why facing Cincinnati carries so much meaning. The veteran back grew up in the city, and though he has yet to face the Bengals in his NFL career, Sunday will be his first time lining up against his hometown team.
“I think it’s just going to be a rush of emotions,” Montgomery admitted. “I’ve never played against Cincinnati since I left. Growing up, that was my team, my hometown team. Now, I’ll get to play against them, and a lot of my family will be there.”
While a homecoming alone would make this game special, one person in the stands will make it unforgettable.
Why His Sister’s Presence Matters Most
Montgomery shared that his sister—who suffered a life-changing car accident last year—will be attending her first NFL game in person.
“About a year, year and a half ago, on Valentine’s Day, my sister was in a really bad car accident,” Montgomery explained. “She’s now paralyzed from the neck down. But this will be the first time she can actually watch me play with her own eyes. I’m super excited and just grateful that she’ll be there.”
A Full-Circle Moment
For Montgomery, this week is about more than yards gained or touchdowns scored. It’s about family, resilience, and perspective. Running onto the field in front of his loved ones—especially his sister—will be a memory that lasts well beyond the final whistle.
For the Lions, Montgomery continues to provide grit and leadership. But on Sunday in Cincinnati, he’ll also embody something deeper: the reminder that some moments in sports carry meaning that numbers on a scoreboard can’t capture.
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