The Houston Texans faced a troubling development on the final day of training camp in West Virginia, as safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson suffered a right leg injury during practice. The incident occurred during a scrimmage at the Greenbrier Resort, where Gardner-Johnson tackled wide receiver John Metchie III.
Following the contact, Gardner-Johnson fell to the ground in clear pain and was unable to move his lower right leg, causing concern among teammates and coaches.
Texans Await Full Injury Report on Gardner-Johnson After Early Positive Test Results
According to reports, initial testing on Thursday night revealed that Gardner-Johnson’s ACL is intact. However, the Texans are continuing evaluations to determine the full extent of the injury. The scene was somber as the injured safety was helped onto a cart and taken off the field, unable to bear weight on his right leg. The seriousness of the injury remains uncertain, pending further medical assessments.
C.J. Gardner-Johnson (NFL)The Texans acquired Gardner-Johnson in a March trade that sent left guard Kenyon Green to the Philadelphia Eagles. The move was intended to bolster the secondary following the departure of 2024 starting safety Eric Murray, who signed with the Jacksonville Jaguars in free agency. Gardner-Johnson was expected to bring veteran leadership and playmaking ability to the Texans’ defensive backfield.
Texans Face Defensive Uncertainty Amid Gardner-Johnson Injury and Safety Depth Concerns
Gardner-Johnson’s potential absence would be a major blow to a defense that excelled last season, finishing sixth in passing yards allowed and second in interceptions.
He was brought in to strengthen an already talented unit featuring All-Pro cornerback Derek Stingley Jr., rookie Kamari Lassiter, safety Calen Bullock, and nickelback Jalen Pitre. With six interceptions in 2024, tied for the third most in the league and 18 in his career, Gardner-Johnson’s playmaking ability and experience were expected to make a significant impact.
If Gardner-Johnson is sidelined, the Texans will need to rely on backup safeties such as M.J. Stewart or Russ Yeast. Pitre, who has experience in safety, could also be shifted back into that role if needed.
Meanwhile, veteran safety Jimmie Ward remains unavailable as he is on the physically unable to perform list and is facing legal issues stemming from a June arrest related to family violence. The NFL is currently reviewing Ward’s case under its personal conduct policy, further complicating the Texans’ depth at the position.
