C. J. Gardner-Johnson arrived in the NFL in 2019 to play for the New Orleans Saints, signing a modest four-year rookie contract worth just $3.3 million. From the moment he joined the franchise, he quickly made it clear that he possessed the skill set to become a valuable presence in the secondary.
He is a player with a unique ability to force turnovers, particularly fumbles, and his aggressiveness is frequently highlighted by teammates and opponents alike, all of whom understand that the area he patrols is fiercely protected.
After spending his first years with the Saints, he chose to move on in search of another team that would offer him the opportunity to compete for a postseason berth first, and ultimately contend for a championship.
Gardner-Johnson reportedly decided to join the equally aggressive Detroit Lions for the 2023 season. His stint there lasted only one year, during which he signed an $8 million deal. However, following several standout performances, he signaled his desire to head toward the East Coast.
In 2024, he signed a three-year, $33 million contract with the Philadelphia Eagles, the most lucrative deal of his career to date. He enjoyed productive seasons in Philadelphia. By 2025, however, he embraced what could be described as a nomadic chapter in his professional journey.
Throughout that year, he played for the Houston Texans and the Chicago Bears. With the earnings he has accumulated so far, it appears to be enough for him. He is not interested in chasing more wealth, but rather in enjoying life.
C. J. Gardner-Johnson wants a short NFL career and to retire
For the cornerback, amassing an astronomical fortune does not seem to be his ultimate dream, as it is for many others. For him, the goal is simply to enjoy a period on professional grids, then walk away and savor what he has earned. Nothing more.
Win the Super Bowl, make some money, and I’m out. I’m tryna be free and stream my life.
Said Gardner-Johnson during his latest stream.
For the player, what appears to be gaining momentum is dedicating himself fully to streaming and envisioning a future far removed from the NFL. In his broadcasts, he has openly discussed the possibility of an early retirement from the league.
As for his next destination, nothing is known. He has not been particularly clear about what he intends to do, at least for the upcoming 2026 season.
His numbers with Chicago are as follows, where he fell short of the expectations that surrounded him before arriving at the organization:
- 10 games
- 7 as a starter
- 51 tackles
- 5 quarterback hits
- 5 tackles for loss
- 4 pass breakups
- 3 sacks,
- 2 interceptions
- 1 forced fumble
For that reason, he failed to fully convince the coaching staff and general management in the Windy City. As a result, he has been released. Given the significant needs the Eagles currently face, they could very well consider bringing him back.
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