Report: C.J. Gardner-Johnson Injury 'Not Serious'

The veteran safety could be okay.

Detroit Lions safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson had his teammates shaken when he was carted off of the field Monday.

The veteran safety suffered an apparent knee injury during an 11-on-11 rep during the team's Monday practice. He was carted off the field, and was unable to put pressure on his right leg in the immediate aftermath.

According to the NFL Network, "There is optimism that #Lions DB C.J. Gardner-Johnson's knee injury is not serious, per sources. More tests to come after CJGJ went down in practice today, but as one source put it: 'He's fine.'"

After he signed a one-year deal in the offseason, worth up to $6.5 million, Gardner-Johnson was expected to play an important role in the team's defensive scheme. 

There is optimism that #Lions DB C.J. Gardner-Johnson's knee injury is not serious, per sources.

More tests to come after CJGJ went down in practice today, but as one source put it: “He’s fine.”

— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) July 24, 2023

Particularly a nickel cornerback, the 25-year-old is capable of playing a multitude of spots within the secondary.

With the Philadelphia Eagles in 2022, he tied for the league lead in interceptions, with six. His prowess for creating turnovers was a major factor in the Lions' pursuit of him during the offseason. 

He also has a longstanding relationship with Detroit defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn, who coached him dating back to their days together at Nike's "The Opening." 

In four professional seasons, the 25-year-old has totaled 228 tackles, 11 interceptions and one forced fumble. 

If Gardner-Johnson misses any time, Detroit has two experienced options in the defensive backfield with Kerby Joseph and Tracy Walker. Both are expected to play important roles this upcoming season. 

Walker is recovering from a torn Achilles suffered in Week 3 of the 2022 season. Joseph was his replacement, and collected a team-best four interceptions, in wake of the injury. 

Rookie Brian Branch has the versatility to play both cornerback and safety. 

At Alabama last season, the second-round pick showcased his abilities as one of the best tacklers at the college level. He has been an early standout at training camp for his work both in coverage and on special teams.