The Houston Texans decided after just three games that C.J. Gardner-Johnson was not a good fit. That decision, made by Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans, left Gardner-Johnson looking for work, and he is back in that position after his latest career turn.
Gardner-Johnson signed with the Baltimore Ravens’ practice squad two weeks after his exit from the Texans.
Now, after just one more week, Gardner-Johnson is back on the free agent market.
C.J. Gardner-Johnson Back in Free Agency After Ravens Follow Texans’ Lead
GettyHouston Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans looks on against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Gardner-Johnson’s tenure with the Texans was cut short after three games, but he never made it to the Ravens’ 53-man or gameday rosters. A Super Bowl champion with the Philadelphia Eagles in 2024, Gardner-Johnson expressed gratitude for his journey and the people in it.
“I just want to take a moment to thank all the teams I’ve been a part of coaches, teammates, and everyone who’s supported me along the way. Every experience has helped me grow both on and off the field. I’m truly grateful for all the opportunities and memories. Football has always been a big part of who I am, and my passion for the game is still strong. I’m excited to keep working, improving, and continuing to play the sport I love,” Gardner-Johnson posted on X on October 14.
“#GodsPlan”
News of the decision drew a lot of attention and even raised some eyebrows, given that it came about quickly.
“Ravens are releasing S Chauncey Gardner-Johnson after the safety’s agent Kevin Conner and Ravens officials came to ‘an amicable mutual decision,’ per Conner,” ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported on X on October 14.
“‘After the Ravens traded for a safety, we were looking for a clearer path to play.’”
The Ravens traded edge defender Odafe Oweh for Alohi Gilman on October 7. Gardner-Johnson was a fourth-round pick (No. 105 overall) of the 2019 draft by the New Orleans Saints.
He has also played for the Detroit Lions and has a history of polarizing exits, following strong comments about the Eagles and Lions after landing in new situations. His departure from the Texans was sparked by locker room friction, missed assignments, and a requested trade.
DeAndre Hopkins to C.J. Gardner-Johnson: ‘Keep That Fire’
GettyDeAndre Hopkins #10 of the Baltimore Ravens celebrates against the Cleveland Browns.
Amid the issues with the Eagles, Lions, and now Texans, Gardner-Johnson still has supporters among peers and former NFL players. Ravens wide receiver and former Texans star DeAndre Hopkins is among them.
“Keep going young Bull!” Hopkins posted on X, quoting Gardner-Johnson’s latest message. “Always keep that fire.”
Gardner-Johnson has posted messages about his status, offering few details.
He posted a graphic that read, “God is with me, I can’t lose,” on October 13, leading former NFL wide receiver Chad Johnson to share it, saying, “Long as you putting in the work he got you nephew [praying hands emoji].”
C.J. Gardner-Johnson Leaning on Faith
GettyC.J. Gardner-Johnson #8 of the Houston Texans reacts against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Gardner-Johnson also posted a line from 2 Corinthians 1:4 in the Bible, though only by that reference.
Per Bible Hub, it reads, “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God. For just as the sufferings of Christ overflow to us, so also through Christ our comfort overflows.”
The Texans acquired Gardner-Johnson in a trade with the Eagles this past offseason.
He has now been on six teams in the last four-plus seasons, including the Texans and Ravens in 2025 and two stints with the Eagles (in 2022 and 2024).
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