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.