Texans receive fantastic news for DeMeco Ryans’ defense right before they start preseason action
The Texans just got the update on a defensive piece that they were hoping for ahead of the preseason.
The Houston Texans got quite the injury scare this week when a veteran safety went down with a concerning injury. Reports swirled regarding his status for this season, but now, there is some positive clarity on the situation.
Gardner-Johnson avoids major injury
According to Adam Schefter, Texans safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson’s knee injury “isn’t as serious as it could have been” after there was some concern that it could end his season. Instead, there’s a chance that the veteran defensive back could be active for Week 1 against the Los Angeles Rams.
Texans C.J. Gardner-Johnson did not tear his ACL during today’s practice, per source. He’s expected to miss some time, but the injury is not expected to be season-ending. — Dianna Russini
Gardner-Johnson is a projected starter for DeMeco Ryan’s defensive unit. He’s projected to start opposite Calen Bullock at safety, while Jalen Pitre locks down the nickel cornerback spot. Gardner-Johnson can also play in the slot.
Now, with Gardner-Johnson potentially back in the fold, that’s one less long-term worry for the coaching staff in Houston. Depending on how their defensive back depth fares in the preseason, we could also see the Texans add a veteran safety in free agency. Supplying some “insurance” even if Gardner-Johnson is ready to start the regular season would make plenty of sense.
Houston kicks off their preseason action tomorrow, August 9th, at 3 CT. The Texans will take on the Minnesota Vikings.
