Update: Gators Defensive Back Undergoes Knee Surgery

[Story updated, 11:15 a.m., 9-26]

Florida junior defensive back Dijon Johnson underwent right knee surgery Monday, knocking him out for the rest of the season, according to Swamp247.com.

Johnson suffered the injury while tackling Miami receiver Malachi Toney on a third-and-4 play during the second half of Saturday’s 26 -7 loss. Johnson limped off the field and came back out on crutches with a brace on his right knee. 

Before exiting the game, the veteran had four tackles and a pass breakup, his first of the season, on Miami’s opening drive. He also had an impressive showing against LSU with eight tackles and his first career interception. 

Johnson started the last four games as one of three defensive backs considered starters on the team alongside Cormani McClain and Devin Moore. Considering the possibility of an extended healing period, the Tampa native is eligible to redshirt. 

With Johnson out of commission, McClain will get more play time. The former five-star recruit was a No. 14 prospect nationally and a No. 1 cornerback in the class of 2023. McClain replaced Johnson for the duration of Saturday’s game. He intercepted a pass by Miami quarterback Carson Beck on a crucial third-quarter play. 

Johnson was one of a handful of UF players who suffered injuries in the Miami game. Defensive back Aaron Gates suffered an apparent shoulder injury. Defensive lineman Brendan Bett suffered a low-body injury, although nothing seemingly severe, according to reports. 

Wide receiver J. Michael Sturdivant also took a big hit, suffering a possible concussion, per reports. Quarterback DJ Lagway also wore a boot earlier this week due to a toe injury. 

Florida (1-3) will release an official injury report Oct. 1. 

The bye week couldn’t have come at a better time, with the number of players hurt. Florida will need to recover before being tested yet again by No. 10 Texas on Oct. 4. 

Category: College Football, Gators Football