2023 Lions Injury Update: CJ Gardner‑Johnson & Jonah Jackson

CJ Gardner‑Johnson’s 2023 Pectoral Setback

In Week 2 of the 2023 campaign, Detroit’s defensive back suffered a pec tear during the memorable “ski mask” game. He rehabbed quickly, flashing enough strength to suit up for the final week of the regular season and the playoff run. After the Lions’ season ended, Gardner‑Johnson moved on, signing with the Eagles before landing stints with the Texans and the Bears. He is now rostered by the Buffalo Bills, a team the Lions will clash with in Week 2 of the 2026 schedule.

The back‑to‑back moves through Philadelphia, Houston and Chicago highlighted his versatility, yet also underscored the constant adjustment required of a player recovering from a major shoulder injury. His trajectory from a key contributor to a rotational defender shows how injury histories can reshape a career in the NFL. As the Bills prepare for their encounter with Detroit, the 2026 matchup will serve as a measuring stick for his recovery and current form.

Jonah Jackson’s Injury Plight

Jackson endured a rough stretch in 2023, dealing with multiple body‑part injuries that forced him to miss six games. The cumulative effect of those setbacks limited his effectiveness, prompting a trade to the Los Angeles Rams for the 2024 season. He appeared in only four contests with the Rams, a stark contrast to his previous season with the Lions.

In 2025, Jackson reunited with former Lions coordinator Ben Johnson in Chicago, where durability returned in a big way. He logged 19 of 19 possible games for the Bears, a clear rebound from the prior two seasons. Jackson’s contract now extends through 2027, signaling the Bears’ confidence in his recovered health and potential as a reliable offensive lineman.

Season Impact & Future Outlook

The 2023 Lions’ march to the NFC Championship Game was punctuated by these two players’ health challenges, illustrating how injuries can ripple through a roster’s playoff aspirations. Gardner‑Johnson’s ability to return for the postseason added depth to a defensive unit that needed every body it could field. Meanwhile, Jackson’s limited availability hinted at the broader issue of roster stability when key linemen are sidelined.

Looking ahead, both athletes are positioned to influence their new teams in 2026 and beyond. The Lions’ upcoming contest against Buffalo will spotlight Gardner‑Johnson’s current status, while Jackson’s consistency with Chicago could prove crucial as the Bears aim for offensive line composure. Their recoveries offer a lens into how the NFL balances resilience with the ever‑present risk of injury.