Former Florida DB CJ Gardner-Johnson reportedly released due to ‘friction’ with Texans
By Rolando Rosa
Published:
Former Florida defensive back CJ Gardner-Johnson is reportedly being released by the Houston Texans, according to KPRC2’s Aaron Wilson.
Wilson is also reporting that the reasoning is because of “friction behind the scenes with him complaining about his role, wanting to blitz more, per league sources, and even communicating that he wanted to be traded.”
#Texans released C.J. Gardner-Johnson after friction behind the scenes with him complaining about his role, wanting to blitz more, per league sources, and even communicating that he wanted to be traded. It didn't work out for him here. M.J. Stewart next man up expected @KPRC2 https://t.co/2BNY7k5xsH
— Aaron Wilson (@AaronWilson_NFL) September 23, 2025
Gardner-Johnson finished with 15 total tackles in his 3 games with the Texans this season.
Wherever the 27-year-old Gardner-Johnson lands next, it’ll be his 5th team in 7 teams. Gardner-Johnson was drafted by the New Orleans Saints in the 4th round of the 2019 NFL Draft. Gardner-Johnson Jr. has also played for the Philadelphia Eagles (2022, 2024) and Detroit Lions (2023).
Gardner-Johnson was the NFL interceptions co-leader in 2022 with 6 for the Eagles. Gardner-Johnson also had 6 interceptions last season in his second stint with the Eagles. Gardner-Johnson lone interception during the playoffs came in 2023 as a member of the Lions.
The Florida native played for the Gators from 2016-18. Gardner-Johnson was named MVP of the 2017 Outback Bowl after tallying 2 interceptions, one of which was a pick-6, during the victory vs. Iowa.
