The Detroit Lions are attempting to get back into the NFC North race but they'll have to do so without Kerryon Johnson. After undergoing knee surgery on Tuesday, Detroit is placing Johnson on injured reserve per Adam Schefter.

Johnson suffered the knee injury during Sunday's game against the Minnesota Vikings. The second-year running back made an early exit in the game and the Lions ended up losing 42-30.

This is a huge blow to a Detroit team who currently sits in last place of the NFC North with a 2-3-1 record. Prior to the injury, Johnson had rushed for 308 yards on 92 attempts (3.3 yards per attempt) and two touchdowns. He also contributed nine receptions, 126 yards, and another score as a receiver.

With Johnson heading to injured reserve, this is the second straight season that he's been placed on injured reserve. Last year, in his rookie campaign, the Auburn product had also been put on IR due to a knee injury. Only this time around, the Lions are hoping he can return before the end of the season.

Additionally, with Johnson missing an extended period of time, Ty Johnson and J.D. McKissic will both see their workloads increased. Both of them have combined for just two starts in the NFL; with both of them coming from McKissic.

The team also claimed Tra Carson off of waivers from the Green Bay Packers last week. Due to the lack of experience in the backfield, Detroit could look to make a trade or sign another running back to help fill the void left by Johnson.