BYU's defense took a hit on Monday when starting cornerback Jordan Johnson suffered a season-ending knee injury in practice.
The school confirmed that a post-practice MRI revealed an ACL tear, and the surgery required will keep him out for the entire 2013 season.
Johnson started 12 games as a sophomore in 2012, missing just one contest due to a conduct-related suspension. The 5-foot-10, 185 pound defensive back recorded 48 tackles and broke up 15 passes from his field corner position. His backup on the Cougars' preseason depth chart is senior Adam Hogan, but Johnson's absence could lead to a shuffling throughout the secondary.
Jay Drew, of The Salt Lake Tribune, suggested that junior college transfer Robertson Daniel could end up as the starter at field corner.
The coaching staff was already concerned with replacing boundary corner Preston Hadley, but now defensive coordinator Nick Howell will need to find an answer for both cornerback positions before the Cougars kick off the 2013 season at Virginia on Aug. 31.
