“The Detroit Lions are once again reconfiguring their running back lineup, parting company with veteran Devine Ozigbo shortly after adding him to the active roster. The team had brought in the 27-year-old just prior to their Monday night game against the Las Vegas Raiders but decided to release him on November 2. According to John Maakaron’s report on SI.com, this move might suggest that the lead running back, David Montgomery, is nearing a return from a rib injury that has sidelined him for the last two games.
The Lions have been actively adjusting their running back situation. Ozigbo had originally been on the practice squad for Detroit but was promoted to play in two games before eventually being signed to the active roster. During his brief stint, he played in a total of three games, carrying the ball three times for five yards and making one catch for 8 yards in the team’s victory over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on October 15.
As reported by SI.com, Ozigbo was on the field for just two offensive snaps and seven special teams snaps in the Lions’ recent win against the Raiders.”
“In the process of releasing Ozigbo, the Lions made a roster addition by signing linebacker Trevor Nowaske to the 53-man roster. Nowaske, a second-year linebacker, had previously been a part of Detroit’s practice squad the previous year. Notably, as reported by Maakaron, he had a strong preseason performance, amassing seven tackles and a pass deflection.
Reflecting on his situation, Nowaske acknowledged, ‘I still have a lot of work to do.’ He recognized the uphill challenge he faced as an undrafted player but expressed satisfaction with his ability to contribute while emphasizing that there’s much more he can achieve.
Ozigbo’s departure hints at a potential return to stability in the Lions’ running back department, which has been without Montgomery since Week 6. Montgomery himself explained that the team was taking a cautious approach to his return, prioritizing his health over rushing him back into action. With the benefit of a bye week, they were able to provide him with the necessary time for recovery, making Ozigbo’s release a possible indicator of Montgomery’s readiness following the bye week.
The Lions have undertaken various moves at running back, including the promotion of former New York Jets running back Zonovan “Bam” Knight to the active roster in September. Head coach Dan Campbell previously mentioned that the team would distribute carries among multiple running backs if Montgomery couldn’t play. He also highlighted the need for rookie running back Gibbs to gain more exposure and experience. Knight, however, was placed on injured reserve on October 14 after appearing in two games, where he had three carries for a total of 13 yards and one reception for 8 yards.”
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