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After being traded to the Houston Texans this week, C.J. Gardner-Johnson is setting the record straight about his final conversation with the Philadelphia Eagles - making it clear that his departure was amicable and understood on both sides.
Speaking in a video that quickly circulated on social media, the 27-year-old safety itted he was stunned when he first got the news of the trade, thinking it was some kind of prank.
"I ain't gonna lie, I thought it was April Fool's," Gardner-Johnson joked. "I was like, they damn sure got me, they playing crazy with me right now."
However, he was quick to clarify that there were no hard feelings. "But naw, it wasn't no love lost. It wasn't no bad blood," he said, emphasizing that the conversation with the Eagles' front office was open and honest.
Understanding the Business Side and Wanting to Win
Gardner-Johnson, who signed a three-year, $27 million contract with Philadelphia in March of last year, explained that he recognized the financial realities facing the team, particularly as some of their younger players are due for big paydays. "The situation is, them young guys just gotta get paid in Philly - [Jalen] Carter, [Reed] Blankenship, and [Zack] Baun," he noted. "Me getting older, I understand. There was no bad blood."
Though surprised, Gardner-Johnson said he had one simple request when speaking with the Eagles before the trade was finalized: "All I asked them was like, between me and y'all, I told them, I just want to go somewhere where I can go play winning football. I didn't ask for a specific place... I want to play winning football."
And soon enough, the destination was clear. "I woke up the next day and boom, there it is, we in Houston," he said.
The Details of the Trade and Eagles' Offseason Overhaul
In exchange for Gardner-Johnson, Philadelphia received former first-round guard Kenyon Green from the Texans, as well as a 2026 fifth-round pick. The Texans also acquired a 2026 sixth-round pick along with Gardner-Johnson, according to NFL Network.
Gardner-Johnson, who recorded six interceptions and scored a defensive touchdown last season, played a key role in helping the Eagles claim their Super Bowl victory over the Chiefs, with a dominant 40-22 win.
His exit marks yet another significant move in what has been an active offseason for the reigning champs. Linebacker Josh Sweat agreed to a four-year, $76.4 million deal with the Arizona Cardinals on Monday, while Zack Baun was locked down with a three-year, $51 million contract last week.
In addition, Philadelphia released veteran cornerbacks Darius Slay and James Bradberry, signaling a broader shift as the team looks to refresh its roster while managing salary cap challenges.
Though Gardner-Johnson is heading to Houston, his message was clear - he leaves Philadelphia grateful for the opportunity and ready to pursue more wins with the Texans.