Jacksonville Jaguars running back Bhayshul Tuten (33) is tackled by Houston Texans safety CJ. Gardner-Johnson (8) during the second quarter of an NFL football matchup at EverBank Stadium, Sunday, Sept. 21, 2025, in Jacksonville, Fla. The Jaguars defeated the Texans 17-10. The Jaguars defeated the Texans 17-10. The winless Texans are releasing veteran safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson, multiple outlets reported Tuesday.
Houston’s KPRC 2 said there was “friction” in the locker room that involved his criticism of teammates, complaints about his role and a trade request.
Gardner-Johnson, 27, has recorded 15 tackles and one quarterback hit during the Texans’ 0-3 start. He has played 96 percent of the team’s defensive snaps.
Houston acquired Gardner-Johnson from the Philadelphia Eagles on March 11 in exchange for offensive lineman Kenyon Green and a 2026 draft pick swap.
Gardner-Johnson won a Super Bowl with the Eagles last season and has 18 interceptions, 51 passes defensed, four sacks and 319 tackles in 77 career games (44 starts) with four teams.
–Field Level Media
