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The Chicago Bears are bolstering their secondary with the addition of veteran safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson. According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the Bears have signed Gardner-Johnson to their active roster following a visit on Tuesday, as confirmed by his agents Kevin Conner and Robert Brown.
Gardner-Johnson will reunite with Bears defensive coordinator Dennis Allen, who previously coached him during his time with the New Orleans Saints. The move gives Chicago a proven playmaker in the defensive backfield as the team looks to strengthen its pass defense heading into the second half of the season.
The 26-year-old safety spent the 2024 season with the Philadelphia Eagles, starting all 16 games and helping them capture a Super Bowl title. Gardner-Johnson was a key contributor, recording six interceptions and 12 pass breakups, while earning strong Pro Football Focus grades, 81.3 in coverage and 60.8 against the run.
However, his 2025 stint with the Houston Texans was short-lived. After being traded there earlier in the year, he played only three games before being released. According to reports from Aaron Wilson of Click2Houston.com, friction developed between Gardner-Johnson and the coaching staff over his role, with the safety reportedly wanting more opportunities to blitz and expressing frustration about his usage.
Despite the off-field challenges that have followed him throughout his career, Gardner-Johnson’s talent is undeniable. Known for his aggressiveness, energy, and versatility, he brings a physical edge and valuable experience to the Bears’ defense.
Suppose Chicago can harness his intensity and keep him focused. In that case, Gardner-Johnson has the potential to be a game-changer, the kind of impact player who can elevate the secondary and bring some much-needed attitude to the defensive unit.