Nov 2, 2024; Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA; Oregon Ducks wide receiver Tez Johnson (15) warms up before the game against the Michigan Wolverines at Michigan Stadium. Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images

Oregon Ducks Receiver Tez Johnson Exits Michigan Game with Injury, Enters Locker Room

Originally posted on Oregon Ducks on SI
By Charlie Viehl | Last updated Nov 2, 2024 4:12 PM ET

The No. 1 Oregon Ducks took a 7-0 lead over Michigan on the Ducks' first offensive drive of the game. While Oregon is ahead, they might have lost wide receiver Tez Johnson to a shoulder injury in the first quarter of the game.

According to CBS sideline reporter Jenny Dell, Johnson spent around two minutes in the injury tent before heading into the locker room with Oregon's training staff. Johnson appeared to be holding his shoulder while walking out of the injury tent.

Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images

Earlier this season, Johnson spoke with Oregon on SI's Bri Amaranthus about his leadership role on the Ducks offense.

"I trust everyone on the offense - coaches, quarterbacks, offensive linemen," Johnson told Amaranthus. "I give all my receptions to the O-linemen because literally they have to block a front for me to get the ball. And I think the team trusts me and I trust everybody. It just works together. Everything you do for the team, it benefits you in a way that is being unselfish."

On the next punt from Michigan, freshman wide receiver Ryan Pellum replaced Johnson as the returner. Pellum caught the ball cleanly, but Michigan forced a fumble on the return. As a result, the Wolverines offense came back on the field in plus territory.

Michigan took advantage of the turnover, scoring a touchdown on a pass from quarterback Davis Warren to wide receiver Tyler Morris.

Ducks fans are hoping that the wide receiver's injury is nothing serious, because he has been one of quarterback Dillon Gabriel's favorite targets, totaling 64 receptions this season. Before exiting the game with an injury, Johnson registered one reception for 11 yards.

Troy Wayrynen-Imagn Images

Johnson was on pace to break his own Oregon record of 86 receptions in 2023 with quarterback and brother Bo Nix under center.

At the end of the first quarter, Oregon and Michigan are tied 7-7. This article will be updated with any news regarding Johnson's status for the game.