The Houston Texans made one of the most surprising roster moves of the young NFL season, releasing veteran safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson just three games into 2025.
The decision comes amid mounting “friction” between the player and team, with reports indicating Gardner-Johnson grew frustrated with his role and even requested a trade before the cut.
CJ GARDNER JOHNSON WAS RELEASED. PLEASE BRING HIM HOME HOWIE #cjgardnerjohnson pic.twitter.com/tVMGsUQRZe
— eagles (@jalenhurtsish1m) September 23, 2025
Super Bowl-Winning safety cut after just three games
According to KPRC 2’s Aaron Wilson, Gardner-Johnson wanted to blitz more and openly expressed dissatisfaction with his defensive responsibilities. Despite ranking fourth on the team in tackles and playing nearly every defensive snap, his behind-the-scenes frustrations led Houston to move on.
The Texans had just restructured his deal weeks earlier, converting $6.58 million of his salary into a bonus, making the release even more shocking.
CJ Gardner-Johnson will be getting a call from Howie Roseman right about now#Eagles #FlyEaglesFly pic.twitter.com/OegMowYdGh
— Garrett McCullough (@GMcCullough26) September 23, 2025
Houston acquired Gardner-Johnson in March in a trade with the Philadelphia Eagles, hoping the high-energy safety would bring championship experience to their secondary. Instead, the partnership ended abruptly, leaving M.J. Stewart and rookie Calen Bullock to pick up the slack as the Texans prepare for Week 4 against the Indianapolis Colts.
Speculation has already begun about a potential reunion with the Eagles, who are off to a 3-0 start, though for now Gardner-Johnson hits the market as one of the league’s most intriguing free agents.
Photo Credit: Thomas Shea-Imagn Images
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