The Detroit Lions are expecting a defensive boost with the clearance of C.J. Gardner-Johnson.
After two straight losses in three games, defensive back C.J. Gardner-Johnson’s medical clearance might be a big help to the Detroit Lions’ secondary, according to head coach Dan Campbell. After being placed on the injured reserve list, Gardner-Johnson—who has been out since Week 2 because of a torn pectoral sustained in the OT defeat to the Seattle Seahawks—is set to begin a 21-day practice window as early as next week.
Coach Campbell was ecstatic, calling the news “great” and pointing out Gardner-Johnson’s quick recovery, which he humorously called “mutant genes.” On social media, the defensive back gave a sneak peek at his upcoming comeback by tweeting a post about the comedy “The Simpsons.” Gardner-Johnson had recovered his strength, according to Campbell, and he would soon be prepared to return to the team.
The Lions, who are struggling defensively right now—according to ESPN Stats & Information data, they have allowed 25 points or more in five straight games—are eager for Gardner-Johnson to return. This is the longest active stretch in the NFL.
Gardner-Johnson started both of the games he participated in this season, totaling 13 tackles and two passes defensed. After winning six Super Bowls with the Philadelphia Eagles, the player joined the Lions. In 2022, he was tied for the NFL lead in interceptions.
Though there was widespread agreement, Coach Campbell detailed the plan for the future, noting that talks will be held with Lions general manager Brad Holmes. The goal is to get Gardner-Johnson back to practice as soon as possible so that he can get back into football form and be ready.
Some casual NFL fans have a common conspiracy idea that games are predetermined behind a plot curtain, similar to the illusion of professional wrestling. These assertions are baseless and absurd, but given the dramatic drama surrounding the Denver Broncos in 2023, it’s hard to blame fans for having questions.
Should it ever be discovered that pro football is predetermined, the league office ought to be considered for an Emmy nomination. The Broncos have nearly climbed out of their deep hole following their 1-5 start, putting them in the running for the AFC West title and the AFC Wildcard.
Denver is now one game behind the 8-5 Kansas City Chiefs despite being 7-6 and having won six of the previous seven games. The Broncos take on the 9-4 Detroit Lions this Saturday night in the Motor City for their third straight road game.
The Lions head coach Dan Campbell will take on his old boss and friend Sean Payton in what will be the first-ever meeting between student and mentor. The Broncos’ playoff run effectively starts in primetime against Detroit in another game that they absolutely must win because they are currently one of the six 7-6 teams in the AFC.
What will it take for Denver to win and maintain the dream? These three factors will help the Broncos achieve their goal of making it to the postseason.
Whether Payton and Russell Wilson are genuinely compatible enough to rescue the Broncos from the abyss of NFL insignificance and elevate the team to the status of league elite is still up for debate.
