C.J. Gardner-Johnson is making headlines again, and this time, it’s for his reaction to a trade that stunned Eagles fans. The former Eagles’ safety, a massive part of their Super Bowl-winning defense, was traded to the Houston Texans, and he didn’t hold back when talking about how it went down.

‘True Colors’: C.J. Gardner-Johnson Gets Real After Shocking Eagles Exit
In a video that’s been circulating, Gardner-Johnson said, “People showed me their true colors when I got traded.” His words have sparked buzz around what might’ve happened behind the scenes.
WOW: Former #Eagles star safety CJ Gardner-Johnson talks about being traded from Philadelphia.
“People showed me their true colors when I got traded.”
— MLFootball (@_MLFootball) April 7, 2025
If you’ve followed Gardner-Johnson’s career, you know he’s not just another guy in the secondary. He’s a playmaker, plain and simple. Over his career, he’s totaled 246 tackles, 18 interceptions, and even scored a touchdown. Last season, playing for the Eagles, he was on fire, racking up 59 tackles, snagging six interceptions, and breaking up 12 passes. He was a cornerstone of their defense and a big reason they made it to the Super Bowl.
More than just the stats, though, Gardner-Johnson brought an energy to the field that fired up his teammates and fans. Eagles’ supporters loved his intensity and passion, which is why the trade caught so many people off guard.
The trade itself left people scratching their heads. The Eagles sent Gardner-Johnson and a sixth-round pick to the Texans in exchange for offensive guard Kenyon Green and a fifth-round pick. On paper, the Eagles justified the move as addressing financial challenges and beefing up their offensive line. Still, it’s hard to ignore the gap Gardner-Johnson’s departure leaves in their defense.
For the Texans, though, this was a no-brainer. They’re getting a proven, high-impact safety who’s still in his prime at just 27 years old. Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans has already spoken about how big of an addition Gardner-Johnson is and how he can help turn around their defense.
Gardner-Johnson Heads to Houston Texans With a Point to Prove
Gardner-Johnson’s remarks, “People showed me their true colors,” hint at some lingering frustration with how the Eagles handled the situation. While the trade might’ve been about money and roster moves for the team, it felt more personal for Gardner-Johnson.
Now, as he starts his journey with the Texans, there’s no doubt he’ll be out to prove his worth and show the Eagles what they’re missing. Fans will watch closely to see how he fits in with his new team and what kind of impact he’ll make in Houston.
Make another tee shirt or hang another doll 😆 😆 You F’d around & found out. NFL said, We can get another of you in minute but Their idea of a thick chick brings in salary cap dollars. 😆 🤣