Tue Sep 23 18:00:00 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summary and a news article based on the provided text:
**Summary:**
The Houston Texans have released veteran safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson after only three games with the team. He was acquired in a trade earlier this year and started all three games. The release reportedly stems from behind-the-scenes friction, including Gardner-Johnson’s dissatisfaction with his role, criticism of teammates, and reluctance to be traded to Houston in the first place. The move coincides with Jimmie Ward’s return from the exempt list (though he’s now on the PUP list) and leaves M.J. Stewart poised to take over at safety. Adding to the strange circumstances, Kenyon Green, the offensive lineman traded to Philadelphia to acquire Gardner-Johnson, was also waived on the same day. The Texans, currently 0-3, are looking to rebound against the Titans.
**News Article:**
**Texans Cut Safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson After Just Three Games Amidst Role Dispute**
HOUSTON, TX – The Houston Texans have unexpectedly released veteran safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson after only three weeks into the season, multiple reports confirmed Tuesday. The move comes as a surprise, as Gardner-Johnson, acquired in a trade with the Philadelphia Eagles in March, started each of the Texans’ first three games and played a significant role on defense.
Sources close to the team reveal that the sudden departure was fueled by behind-the-scenes friction. According to Aaron Wilson of KPRC 2 Houston, Gardner-Johnson voiced his displeasure with his assigned role within the defense, specifically expressing a desire to blitz more frequently. Additionally, he allegedly criticized his teammates and expressed to team officials that he did not want to be traded to Houston in the first place.
“There were some issues behind the scenes, it sounds like,” a source familiar with the situation told KPRC. “Gardner-Johnson wanted a different role and it didn’t work out.”
The timing of the release is also notable, occurring a day after Jimmie Ward was removed from the Commissioner’s Exempt List, although Ward has now been placed on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list. M.J. Stewart is now expected to step into a larger role at safety for the Texans.
In an odd twist, offensive lineman Kenyon Green, who was traded to Philadelphia as part of the deal to acquire Gardner-Johnson, was also waived by the Eagles on Monday.
The Texans, currently struggling with a 0-3 record, will look to regroup and secure their first win of the season against the equally winless Tennessee Titans on Sunday. The team will now have to address the gap left by Gardner-Johnson’s unexpected departure as they aim to turn their season around.
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