The Texas Longhorns are expecting to have their most dangerous offensive weapon back against the Iowa State Cyclones on Thursday with the Monday morning news that sophomore Daje Johnson has been practicing after the ankle injury that he suffered against BYU that kept him out against Ole Miss and Kansas State.
The rest of the injury news was slightly less promising -- junior offensive tackle Josh Cochran is still out after he aggravated a previous shoulder injury early against Ole Miss. Junior quarterback David Ash (head) is day-to-day, as are senior wide receiver Mike Davis (ankle) and junior tight end Greg Daniels (foot).
Meanwhile, junior nickel back Quandre Diggs missed some practice time last week with a sore ankle, but is expected to play. Given the struggles Diggs has endured making the transition to nickel back, it's hardly a surprise that he wasn't quite right physically.
Johnson's return may decrease some pressure on senior quarterback Case McCoy, whose offensive package has been somewhat limited in his two turnover-free appearances and reduce the need for a package of plays with redshirt freshman running back Jalen Overstreet or true freshman quarterback Tyrone Swoopes.
Whatever happens, if Johnson is back and anywhere close to 100%, the boost for the Texas offense could be significant.