Panthers WR Diontae Johnson has injury scare after return to practice on Tuesday

Carolina Panthers wideout Diontae Johnson just nearly performed his own version of the “Grandpa Simpson Walking In and Out” meme.

The sixth-year receiver made his return to practice on Tuesday, after taking it easy for the past week with a mild groin strain. But it wouldn’t be an uneventful comeback for Johnson, who was seen limping during 11-on-11 drills.

Fortunately, the 28-year-old got right back into action following what Joe Person of The Athletic described as a “twist” of his foot. Person noted that Johnson was holding his foot after a crosser during the drill.

Head coach Dave Canales was asked about the scare after practice.

“I didn’t see it,” he replied. “He was fine, though. It was like a play or two, he was back out there running.”

Johnson, whom the Panthers acquired from the Pittsburgh Steelers this past spring, is expected to play a featured role in Canales’ offense this season. In fact, he’ll likely be quarterback Bryce Young’s go-to option.

So luckily for Carolina, he’s still an option as we move through the final week of the preseason.