As the Houston Texans prepare for their first game action of the season, they'll likely be without safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson.
Texans Prepare For Vikings Following C.J. Gardner-Johnson News originally appeared on Athlon Sports.
As the Houston Texans set to face the Minnesota Vikings in their first game action of the season on Saturday, they'll likely be without one of their top defenders.
According to KPRC2's Aaron Wilson, safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson suffered a knee injury in practice Thursday while covering wide receiver John Metchie III during a drill. The former Philadelphia Eagles standout was thought to have torn his ACL. However, ensuing reports suggested his ACL is intact, and the Texans are conducting additional testing to determine the extent of his injury.
"It's heartbreaking when you see a guy go down on a field like that and doesn't get up quickly," Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans said afterward. "I'm always nervous as a head coach anytime I see anybody hit the ground, it's tough to watch."
After winning a Super Bowl with the Eagles last season, Gardner-Johnson, 27, was traded to the Texans in March for guard Kenyon Green and a day three swap in the NFL Draft. He was brought in to replace Eric Murray, who signed with the Jacksonville Jaguars this offseason.
In 16 games with the Eagles in 2024, Gardner-Johnson recorded 35 combined tackles and six interceptions. Since the start of the 2022 season, he has picked off 13 passes which leads all NFL players.
While it remains unclear how much time Gardner-Johnson is expected to miss, the Texans have plenty of options to replace him.
Listed behind Gardner-Johnson on the Texans unofficial depth chart released Tuesday is veteran M.J. Stewart, who reportedly spent time with the first team defense after Gardner-Johnson's injury. They could also turn to former New England Patriots starter Myles Bryant, who signed a one-year deal with the Texans this offseason.
“Myles, he shows up every day,” Ryans said. “Myles, he does a lot for us. He’s a utility guy. He can play on the outside at corner, nickel, safety, moves around a lot of positions."
Jalen Pitre, who is slotted to start at nickel, could also fill Gardner-Johnson's role. He has seen action at the safety position in this defense. Rookie Jaylen Reed, who is listed as Calen Bullock's backup despite dealing with an ankle injury, could also fill in when he's healthy.
The Texans will likely experiment with a number of options Saturday afternoon against the Vikings. Game time is set for 3 p.m. CT.
Related: Texans Release Unofficial Depth Chart Ahead of Preseason Opener Against Vikings
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Aug 8, 2025, where it first appeared.
Category: Football
