The Eagles made a surprising move Tuesday, trading safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson and a 2026 sixth-round pick to the Houston Texans for guard Kenyon Green and a 2026 fifth-round pick.
After the deal was made, Gardner-Johnson posted a statement on social media that provided insight into whose idea it was to be traded while also thanking those he was around during his time with the team. Gardner-Johnson made it clear that the trade was not his decision.
“You’ve been more than a city to me — you’ve been a home,” Gardner-Johnson said. “From the moment I stepped onto Lincoln Financial, I knew I’d found a place where passion isn’t just celebrated; It’s demanded. And I gave everything — every snap, every hit, every ounce in my bones. This decision wasn’t mine, but I walk away proud of what we built together.”
Gardner-Johnson also thanked members of the Eagles organization, mentioning the two NFC titles the team won while he was on the roster, as well as this year’s Super Bowl victory.
“To my teammates: Brothers, we bled, cursed, and laughed through it all. To the coaches and front office: Thank you for trusting a kid from Florida with a chip on his shoulder to lead this defense. And to the Philly Faithful — you’re unmatched. You embraced my edge and fire for this game, even when I got too hot. Philly, you helped me carve my name into this league. But this isn’t goodbye. It’s thank you.”
Gardner-Johnson had six interceptions last season, returning one for a touchdown. He also recorded 12 passes defensed and 59 tackles.
The Eagles will now look for another safety to start alongside Reed Blankenship, with Sydney Brown and Lewis Cine being internal candidates to replace Gardner-Johnson.
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Chris Franklin may be reached at cfranklin@njadvancemedia.com.