New York Giants backup linebacker Dyontae Johnson, who exited Thursday’s 14-3 preseason victory against the Detroit Lions due to an ankle injury, is now being evaluated on a week-to-week basis.
ESPN’s Jordan Raanan was the first to break the news.
LB Dyontae Johnson is considered week to week with an ankle sprain. A tough blow. He’s made a strong impression in training camp + preseason.
The undrafted rookie from Toledo has received some first-team reps this summer and made an impact with a sack and a crucial third-down tackle against the Lions. https://t.co/Gr975plMYQ
— Jordan Raanan (@JordanRaanan) August 10, 2024
“He was planning to return,” head coach Brian Daboll stated after the game. “He discussed it. I believe it was an ankle issue. I don’t have any further updates on his injury status. I haven’t met with Ronnie Barnes or received any updates.”
As of Friday, Daboll still had no official update on Johnson’s condition.
Johnson is in his second season with the Giants after spending 2023 on the practice squad. He has a genuine opportunity to secure a spot on the roster (if he recovers) as the primary backup inside linebacker to Bobby Okereke and Micah McFadden.
“I’ve been impressed with his performance so far. He’s been doing a great job,” defensive coordinator Shane Bowen commented on Johnson last week. “He’s competing for a role, and special teams will also play a crucial part in that. Defensively, he has been productive stepping in, and he’s done well.”
The injury could affect Johnson’s chances of making the final 53-man roster in three weeks as he faces competition from rookie Darius Muasau, who also had a strong performance on Thursday night.
