The Lions will be without receiver Calvin Johnson for tonight’s preseason game in Cleveland because the All Pro receiver is dealing with a knee contusion (bruise). Johnson also sat out of Tuesday’s practice.
The injury is not believed to be serious, and since this is the preseason, it’s a good chance to sit Megatron and give some receivers a chance to step up and earn a roster spot.
Most notably, Patrick Edwards, who will start in place of Johnson.
The team will also be without safety Louis Delmas, who will miss a second consecutive preseason game.
“Is it important for me to get out there? Yes. But is it wise? Right now I don’t think so,” Delmas said this week.
“I’m definitely on schedule for the regular season, it’s just trying to get into these preseason (games). I’m kind of doubtful about it, but I still want to get out there and participate with my team before the regular season.”
We’ll see if that happens next week vs. New England or in the preseason finale at Buffalo.
Don Carey will start in his place of Delmas.
Also sitting out tonight is safety John Wendling, cornerbacks Chris Greenwood and Jonte Green and tight end Matt Veldman, who injured an Achilles tendon catching a pass in practice this week.
Cornerback Ron Bartell, defensive end Israel Idonije and receiver Ryan Broyles were not on the list of inactive players released by the team before the game. We’ll see if they play tonight.
