We know several things about CJ Gardner-Johnson. He has a reputation for trash-talking. Two former Chicago Bears players threw literal punches at him because of it. He’s an excellent defensive back, having posted two seasons with six interceptions each. Coaches tend to lose patience with him because of his outspoken tendencies. As a result, he’s had a productive career but also tends to jump from team to team. That is why he was available during the season. The Houston Texans weren’t willing to deal with his personality.
Another thing that often gets overlooked with Gardner-Johnson? He’s a good teammate. While he might be demanding of others at times, that doesn’t mean he isn’t willing to throw down with anybody who crosses his guys. Jalen Ramsey found that out on Sunday. The Pittsburgh Steelers’ cornerback was guilty of what looked like a late hit on Caleb Williams out of bounds. Gardner-Johnson immediately got in Ramsey’s face after the play. If the referee hadn’t been right there to step in between them, it is reasonable to assume more than words would’ve been exchanged.
CJ Gardner-Johnson is a fighter. The Bears need fighters.
Everything about how the defensive back has carried himself for years says he’s only interested in winning. If he feels the rest of the team isn’t focused on that goal, he starts calling guys out. He doesn’t care who you are. Players and coaches often don’t appreciate that, which is why he doesn’t last long. Chicago is a unique situation. They have a head coach who is also known for being blunt with his words whenever he feels guys aren’t pulling their weight. It might explain why the Bears felt comfortable signing CJ Gardner-Johnson.
Having more people like that in the locker room is a good thing. Yeah, they’re willing to fight you, but also will fight for you. You know how they always ask who that one guy is you’d want at your back when walking into a dark alley? Gardner-Johnson feels like that type. He may annoy the hell out of you, but he won’t hesitate to fight it out against any and all comers.
Subscribe to the BFR Youtube channel and ride shotgun with Dave and Ficky as they break down Bears football like nobody else.