To say that this has been a complicated season for C.J. Gardner-Johnson would be a massive understatement.
One week after seemingly finding a new home, the defensive back is unemployed again, and the Super Bowl champion took to social media to send an emotional message.
“I just want to take a moment to thank all the teams I’ve been a part of, coaches, teammates, and everyone who’s supported me along the way. Every experience has helped me grow both on and off the field. I’m truly grateful for all the opportunities and memories. Football has always been a big part of who I am, and my passion for the game is still strong. I’m excited to keep working, improving, and continuing to play the sport I love,” Gardner-Johnson wrote on X.
I just want to take a moment to thank all the teams I’ve been a part of coaches, teammates, and everyone who’s supported me along the way. Every experience has helped me grow both on and off the field. I’m truly grateful for all the opportunities and memories. Football has always…
— C.J. Gardner-Johnson (@CGJXXIII) October 14, 2025
The Baltimore Ravens signed him to their practice squad, and, given their glaring defensive issues, it certainly looked like they could use him.
That’s why it was somewhat surprising to see him released shortly after.
According to his agent, it was an “amicable mutual decision.”
The Ravens traded for safety Alohi Gilman and started him in a Week 6 loss to the Los Angeles Rams, while Gardner-Johnson wasn’t even active.
Gilman had a strong outing and logged seven combined tackles, so the writing seemed to be on the wall for Gardner-Johnson.
Notably, this is the second time he’s been released this season.
The Houston Texans, who traded for him from the Philadelphia Eagles earlier in the offseason, released him after three games.
Multiple reports cited that Gardner-Johnson rubbed people the wrong way in the locker room.
In seven NFL seasons, he has 18 interceptions and 51 passes defended, and last season he had six interceptions for the Eagles’ championship team.
A new team may become interested in his services, but he will have to be on his best behavior.
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