The Houston Texans are wrapped up with OTAs and mandatory minicamp, and it was a successful period as the organization tries to take that leap to become a true contender in the AFC.
There is at least some roster turnover every year during the offseason and the Texans are no exception. Some holdovers have impressed, though it's a great time to evaluate some of the additions as well.
Among the biggest moves Houston made was the trade for veteran defensive back C.J. Gardner-Johnson. The 27-year-old is fresh off a Super Bowl victory with the Philadelphia Eagles, yet he was still deemed expendable. He'll now be on his fourth NFL team, and he's already creating headaches for the Texans ahead of training camp.
Former Eagles safety CJ Gardner-Johnson says Philly won’t win another Super Bowl without him:
— SleeperEagles (@SleeperEagles) June 16, 2025
“The [Eagles] probably won’t see [a ring] without me. Y’all saw what happened when I left. I’m popping now, I’m glad I’m in Texas.”
… pic.twitter.com/M47ZbwcX5y
Texans DB C.J. Gardner-Johnson Already Giving Houston a Headache
While there haven't been any specific bad actions on the field or anything along those lines, Gardner-Johnson is showing signs that he could become a distraction for a team focused on hoisting a Lombardi Trophy.
Known for his trash-talking antics, Gardner-Johnson declared that "the [Eagles] probably won’t see [a ring] without me. Y’all saw what happened when I left. I’m popping now, I’m glad I’m in Texas." He wore out his welcome twice in Philadelphia and was shown the door by the Detroit Lions and New Orleans Saints, so it's clear that his personality wears on people.
Whether he's attacking Taylor Swift and her fans or disrespecting his former coaches, Gardner-Johnson's actions suggest he's more focused on himself than the team. That didn't stop his Eagles from winning it all last year, but it could be a problem for a young squad like Houston has.
Hopefully, head coach DeMeco Ryans will be able to maintain order and keep Gardner-Johnson in line. Everyone in the building needs to be focused on that singular goal, and if Gardner-Johnson can stay out of his own way, the team will be better for it.