News Summary
The Houston Texans have released starting safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson after just three games with the team. Despite expectations for his performance to enhance the secondary, his contributions were underwhelming, leading to his departure. With the Texans struggling at 0-3, Gardner-Johnson’s release comes as the team looks to rectify communication issues in their defense. His contract restructured prior to the season includes a signing bonus he retains despite his exit. The Texans now turn their focus to improving their defense and preparing for upcoming matchups.
Houston
The Houston Texans announced the release of starting safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson on Tuesday after just three games with the team. Gardner-Johnson, acquired from the Philadelphia Eagles in the offseason in exchange for offensive lineman Kenyon Green, was expected to enhance the Texans’ secondary with his notable “ball-hawking” ability. However, his performance did not meet expectations, leading to this decision.
During his brief tenure with the Texans, Gardner-Johnson played 96% of the defensive snaps, contributing 15 tackles while failing to record any interceptions or passes defensed. His release comes amid a challenging season for the Texans, who began the year 0-3. Head coach DeMeco Ryans has pointed to communication issues within the secondary as a factor in the team’s struggles, which have seen the defense allow several significant plays against opponents.
Prior to the season, Gardner-Johnson restructured his contract, receiving a $6.6 million signing bonus that he retains despite his release. This followed a successful tenure with the Eagles, where he registered six interceptions in both the 2022 and 2024 seasons, helping the team reach the Super Bowl in those years, including a victory in 2024. However, his time with the Detroit Lions in 2023 was limited to just three games due to injuries.
The decision to part ways with Gardner-Johnson was influenced by specific performance issues, particularly his failure to effectively execute the defensive scheme, notably in “match coverage.” He allowed multiple significant plays during the Texans’ losses against key opponents, which included critical mistakes that contributed to the team’s disappointing start. Following a touchdown allowed against the Rams, Gardner-Johnson’s improper coverage led to additional points for rival teams.
Moreover, Gardner-Johnson’s inability to accept responsibility for these coverage mistakes reportedly created friction among teammates. With his departure, the Texans currently have two true safeties on their roster: Calen Bullock and M.J. Stewart. Additionally, veteran safety Jimmie Ward, who began the season on the physically unable to perform list, is expected to return soon.
As the Texans prepare for their next matchup against the Tennessee Titans, who are also struggling with an 0-3 record, the team will be looking to strengthen its defense and establish better communication moving forward. The adjustments made following Gardner-Johnson’s release will be crucial as the Texans seek to turn their season around.
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Additional Resources
- ESPN: Texans Release Veteran Safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson
- Google Search: C.J. Gardner-Johnson Texans release
- NBC Sports: What’s Next for C.J. Gardner-Johnson
- Encyclopedia Britannica: C.J. Gardner-Johnson
- USA Today: C.J. Gardner-Johnson Landing Spots After Release
- Google News: C.J. Gardner-Johnson
Author: STAFF HERE HOUSTON TX WRITER
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