Ex-Eagles star CJ Gardner-Johnson ‘still shocked’ by trade decision after Super Bowl LIX victory

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The joy of winning the Super Bowl had hardly worn off when C.J. Gardner-Johnson learned of his trade to the Houston Texans. Even now, the former Philadelphia Eagles defensive star is still shocked by the abrupt decision.

Gardner-Johnson was a key component in the Eagles’ top-ranked defense last season, but on March 11, he was traded to the Texans in exchange for guard Kenyon Green and a swap of late-round draft picks. 

Philadelphia Eagles safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson practices before Super Bowl LIX against the Kansas City Chiefs in New Orleans, Feb. 9, 2025. (Kirby Lee-Imagn Images)

"To be honest with you, I'm still shocked, but I'm happy," Gardner-Johnson said of the trade on Tuesday, via NFL.com 

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"New, fresh start, meet new guys. I think the biggest thing I've noticed is this team is very young. So, being one of the oldest guys in the room, you've got to realize we're here for business, here to have fun, but we're also here to win football. So, being around those guys, I kind of got a feel for them first couple of days and how to go about things here."

Gardner-Johnson recorded six interceptions in his second stint with the Eagles. He previously played in Philadelphia in 2022, before returning in 2024 on a three-year deal. He became the team’s starting safety and registered three tackles in the Eagles’ 40-22 win over the Kansas City Chiefs in Super Bowl LIX.

Philadelphia Eagles safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson celebrates after winning Super Bowl LIX at Caesars Superdome on Feb. 9, 2025. (Geoff Burke-Imagn