Thu Jul 17 02:50:00 UTC 2025: ## CJ Gardner-Johnson Claims Eagles Traded Him Because They Were “Scared of a Competitor”

**Philadelphia, PA** – While the Philadelphia Eagles cited salary cap constraints as the reason for trading defensive back C.J. Gardner-Johnson to the Houston Texans this offseason, Gardner-Johnson himself believes a different motive was at play: fear.

In a recent interview on “The Pivot” podcast, Gardner-Johnson claimed the Eagles shipped him out because they were “scared of a competitor.” When pressed by host Ryan Clark, Gardner-Johnson elaborated, saying, “You can’t program a dawg.”

Gardner-Johnson implied that he felt unfairly blamed for team issues, citing his ejection in a game against the Washington Commanders and a post-season practice fight. “We had a little scrum at practice, nothing, just offense versus defense, but who’s the culprit of it? Me,” he stated, suggesting his competitive spirit was misinterpreted as disruptive.

He emphasized his belief that his teammates never had a problem with his behavior, claiming he’s never had locker room issues. “You want me to be a leader and outspoken, but then you want me to sit back,” Gardner-Johnson said.

Following the trade, Gardner-Johnson initially posted a now-retracted video suggesting the Eagles wouldn’t win another Super Bowl without him. He has since apologized to his former teammates, acknowledging that his comments were “too much” and “disrespectful.” He specifically cited veteran Lane Johnson as someone who advised him on controlling his behavior. “Apologizing to the guys in Philly, I got nothing against them. And if they win six more rings without me, they deserve it, because that’s the type of players they are.”

The Eagles have not commented directly on Gardner-Johnson’s claims.

**In Other NFL News:**

* Veteran linebacker Von Miller is signing with the Washington Commanders.
* Commanders tight end Zach Ertz supports paying wide receiver Terry McLaurin whatever he wants in contract negotiations.
* Steelers defensive lineman Cameron Heyward is excited to work with new teammates Jalen Ramsey and Jonnu Smith after the Minkah Fitzpatrick trade.
* Former Saints tight end Jimmy Graham and his team broke the record for rowing the Arctic Challenge.
* 49ers tight end George Kittle isn’t worried about quarterback Brock Purdy wilting under pressure after signing a massive new contract.
* The Denver Broncos agreed to terms with No. 20 overall pick Jahdae Barron on his rookie contract.

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