Lions activate Gardner-Johnson from IR

The Detroit Lions are getting a pair of starting defenders back.

Detroit activated defensive back C.J. Gardner-Johnson from injured reserve on Saturday ahead of the team's Week 18 matchup with the Minnesota Vikings, the team announced.

Gardner-Johnson - one of Detroit's main signings in the 2023 offseason - hasn't played since suffering a torn pectoral in Week 2. The 26-year-old joined the Lions on a one-year, $6.5-million contract after leading the NFL with six interceptions as a member of the Philadelphia Eagles last season.

He had 13 tackles and two pass breakups in two appearances with Detroit before being sidelined.

The Lions also activated defensive lineman Alim McNeill on Saturday. McNeill, who landed on injured reserve on Dec. 5 due to a knee injury, set a career high with nine QB hits and five sacks through 12 games before sustaining the ailment.

Detroit - which has already clinched a playoff berth - ranks fifth in points scored this campaign but only 23rd in points allowed. The Lions won their first-ever NFC North title this season.

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