Eagles Injury Update: S CJ Gardner-Johnson

The Philadelphia Eagles were without safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson for their first preseason game against the Baltimore Ravens on Friday. Gardner-Johnson left Monday's training camp practice early with a shoulder injury.

While the injury is reportedly minor, Gardner-Johnson was held out of team drills on Tuesday. He was, however, spotted doing some off-field work, suggesting the team is taking a cautious approach to his recovery.

Gardner-Johnson's return to Philadelphia has been highly anticipated, as the Eagles look to bolster their secondary after a disappointing 2023 season. Last year, without Gardner-Johnson, the team's defense plummeted from one of the league's best in 2022 to ranking 30th in points allowed per game (25.2) and 31st in passing yards allowed (3,125).

The safety's journey back to the Eagles has been circuitous. After failing to reach an agreement with Philadelphia following the 2022 season, Gardner-Johnson signed a one-year deal with the Detroit Lions. His time in Detroit was cut short by a torn pectoral muscle, limiting him to just two regular-season games before he returned for the Divisional Round of the playoffs.

In his brief time with the Lions, Gardner-Johnson showcased his skills, registering 17 total tackles, three passes defended, and one interception across three games.

Related: Eagles Division Review: CeeDee Lamb Lashes Out At Jerry Jones

With Gardner-Johnson sidelined for Friday's preseason opener, the Eagles are likely to turn to Reed Blankenship, Avonte Maddox, or James Bradberry to fill the void in the secondary.

It is expected to be a quick recovery for Gardner-Johnson. His presence in the slot is expected to provide a significant boost to a secondary looking to regain its 2022 form and help propel the team back into Super Bowl contention.