C.J. Gardner-Johnson entered the 2023 NFL free agency process with the understanding that he’d have a huge market as one of the top young safeties in the NFL.
Gardner-Johnson was traded to the Eagles during the 2022 preseason and promptly helped elevate the defense to one of the NFL’s top units.
If not for a lacerated kidney that cost him five games, Gardner-Johnson likely would have been a Pro Bowler and All-Pro after being a co-leader in interceptions with six total.
On Thursday, the free-agent defensive back tweeted and then deleted a post about disrespect.
While high-profile safeties like Jessie Bates, Vonn Bell, Jimmie War, and Jordan Boyer have inked new deals, Gardner-Johnson is still unsigned.
One point of contention could be the Eagles and other organizations viewing Gardner-Johnson as more of a hybrid slot cornerback, and not a true safety.
The longer the situation plays out, the better shot Philadelphia has of retaining the talented safety.
