Charles Johnson could be sidelined for rest of offseason

Carolina Panthers defensive end Charles Johnson, who signed a $72 million contract last summer, has had arthroscopic surgery to relieve swelling in his right knee.

The club announced the surgery, which leaves Johnson’s status for the remainder of the voluntary offseason program and minicamp in doubt. General manager Marty Hurney stressed the procedure was a “minor clean-out” and Johnson is expected to be ready well in advance of training camp.

Johnson wrote: “My surgery went good! Thanks to everyone for your blessing,” on his Twitter account, according to the Charlotte Observer.

Johnson also suffered a cut hand this offseason at a charity event but that was believed to be minor.

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Brad Biggs covers the Bears for the Chicago Tribune