Lonnie Johnson Set for Season Debut with Raiders Against Denver

HENDERSON, Nev. (AP) — Las Vegas Raiders safety Lonnie Johnson Jr. is ready to play Thursday night against the Denver Broncos after being activated from injured reserve. Johnson has not played this season due to a broken fibula he sustained during a training camp scrimmage on August 2.

Johnson returned to practice on October 27, starting a 21-day window for the Raiders to activate him. He expressed excitement about his impending return to action, saying, “It’s been a long time for me. Ain’t nothing short, but it’s shorter for them.”

The Raiders look to benefit from Johnson’s experience as he steps into a team dealing with defensive changes. Johnson likely will coexist with fellow safeties Isaiah Pola-Mao and Jeremy Chinn, highlighting their versatility in the defense. Johnson noted, “We’re all interchangeable. I can play nickel and Chinn can go to safety or Pola-Mao can go to nickel and vice versa.”

Coach Pete Carroll emphasized the importance of carefully monitoring Johnson’s performance during the quick turnaround week. “We gotta get him back out there,” Carroll said. “It’s been quite a while for him, so this will be his first full-speed live action.”

The team’s injury report also includes defensive tackle Adam Butler, who is listed as questionable due to a back issue, and safety Isaiah Pola-Mao, who will play despite his own questionable status. Tight end Carter Runyon, running back Zamir White, and several other players have been declared inactive for the matchup against the Broncos.

Fans and team members alike are eager to see the impact Johnson can make as he returns to the field, hoping he plays a key role in stabilizing the Raiders’ defense for the remainder of the season.