Lions' C.J. Gardner-Johnson Not Yet Ready to Return

Gardner-Johnson not expected to play against Vikings.

Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell said Friday that he doesn't expect to activate safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson ahead of the team's Week 16 matchup with the Minnesota Vikings. 

The safety is still recovering from a torn pec suffered in Week 2, but returned to practice this week. Though he has looked good in practice, the veteran still needs more practice reps to assure that he feels good enough to perform at a high level upon returning. 

"He's, you know, looked good. He looks fresh obviously, moving around pretty good," Campbell said of Gardner-Johnson. "So, it's really just about getting, we need to get him some more practices just to make sure he's ready to go, he's comfortable. We don't just throw him out there to the wolves. I mean, I don't necessarily see him going this week, but he's good. He's doing good." 

Opportunity to win division: 'It's special'

The Lions have a chance to clinch a division title for the first time since 1993 on Sunday, with a win over the Vikings. 

As a former player who suited up for the organization, Campbell understands the angst that the fanbase has had with hopes for a winner. The third-year coach has been adamant that the goal for the team this season was to do exactly what it has a chance to do in Week 16. 

Now that the team is on the precipice of achieving it, he's reiterated just how special this would be for the team, as well as the fanbase. 

While the team understands the special opportunity in front of it, it hasn't felt the weight of the pressure that comes with playing for an organization that hasn't achieved this success in 30 years. 

This mindset is largely the result of a singular focus implemented by Campbell and the team's captains. 

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“I think it’s, no they don’t. I understand, I definitely do, and I think that’s what a lot of this is about," Campbell said. "But, we are a young team, and most of these guys weren’t even born the last time they won a division. But, I think they also understand how special it’ll be. You’re telling me we can be a division winner first time in 30 years for an organization, that’s special. I don’t care how you cut it, whatever perspective you take, it’s still special. I think that’s the message, and they understand that. And look, we want this, but I can tell you Minnesota wants this division, too. They’re gonna be ready to go, and so, we’ve got our hands full. But, I like where we’re at.” 

Optimistic about McNeill

The Lions' defensive line has missed the presence of Alim McNeill since the talented defender went on injured reserve. 

McNeill has two more weeks remaining on IR, but is eligible to return prior to the Lions' regular season finale against the Vikings. In his absence, the Lions have relied on the likes of Isaiah Buggs and Benito Jones. 

Heading into Week 16, two weeks into his IR stint, Campbell provided an update on McNeill. The organization is optimistic about the chances of the third-year defender returning and making an impact as the Lions potentially make the postseason.

"The best I can tell you is yeah, we are optimistic and he is healing," Campbell said. "He's making progress. There's nothing discouraging about it. I can't give you the timeline, but yes, I absolutely feel good about getting him back before this is all said and done."