Lions coach Jim Schwartz says given Johnson's ability to play without practicing, that doesn't rule him out for Browns. The team is willing to send him out there a little less than fully healthy, given how big a difference-maker he is to their passing game.
If Johnson plays, he steps into a tough matchup with cornerback Joe Haden. The Lions need him to stretch the field, as they have limited reliable receiving options beyond him. Their No. 2 target for Matt Stafford is running back Reggie Bush, but Bush, like he was against the Packers, would become the center of the Browns defense's attention without Johnson occupying safeties.
Detroit is 3-2 in a tie for first place in the NFC North, but the team needs Johnson to have a good chance at staying there after this weekend.
