Why Did Texans Release CJ Gardner-Johnson? Insider Reveals Reason for DeMeco Ryans Cutting Safety’s Contract

The Houston Texans dropped their third consecutive game with a 17-10 loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars. The defeat leaves Houston 0-3 for the first time in head coach DeMeco Ryans’ three seasons.

Adding more drama to this, the Texans made a surprising roster move by releasing safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson, just one day after Jimmie Ward was removed from the exempt list.

NFL insider Ian Rapoport first reported the news on X: “The #Texans are releasing S C.J. Gardner-Johnson. A surprise.”

Aaron Wilson added more context, revealing that the move stemmed from friction behind the scenes. Gardner-Johnson had expressed frustration with his role, reportedly wanting to blitz more and even asking for a trade.

Sources: The #Texans are releasing S C. J. Gardner-Johnson. A surprise. pic.twitter.com/8hfYC8weCi

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) September 23, 2025

Ultimately, things didn’t work out in Houston, and the team is expected to turn to M.J. Stewart as the next man up at safety.

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