The Detroit Lions face a significant decision regarding veteran defensive back C.J. Gardner-Johnson. The lively defender, who led the NFL with six interceptions in 2022, had a disappointing 2023 season with the Lions due to injury. A torn pectoral muscle sidelined him for 14 games, and although he diligently worked to return for the playoffs, he only played a rotational role upon his comeback.
Nevertheless, Lions rookie cornerback Brian Branch advocates for Gardner-Johnson’s return. Branch took to Twitter on Monday to respond to a post asking Lions fans if the team should re-sign Gardner-Johnson, who had signed a one-year, $6.5 million contract with the team the previous year.
Branch’s sentiment was clear: “Yes, bring this guy back,” he tweeted.
Yes bring this mf back @detroit https://t.co/HPEcCwQPaE
— Alpha🐕 (@BrianBB_1) February 5, 2024
Gardner-Johnson ranked third on our list of Lions free agency priorities, yet Erik Schlitt highlighted a pertinent concern regarding his potential return: determining his role within the roster if Detroit chooses to re-sign him.
Is it justifiable to invest in Gardner-Johnson knowing he might not secure a starting position? It’s uncertain what kind of contract Gardner-Johnson will pursue in free agency. In 2023, he took a gamble on himself with a one-year deal, but injuries hindered his ability to showcase his talents. Would he be open to another reasonable contract with Detroit? Otherwise, it might be challenging for him to accept another rotational role in the defense, a situation he seemed discontent with towards the end of the season.
However, if Branch, whose abilities closely resemble Gardner-Johnson’s, advocates for his return, perhaps having a mentor in the locker room who can also excel on the field could be beneficial.
