Eagles Rumors: AFC team enters the mix for CJ Gardner-Johnson

Although the Eagles remain in hot pursuit of CJ Gardner-Johnson, another team has put its name in the hat for his services.
According to NFL reporter Aaron Wilson, the Denver Broncos are showing interest in Gardner-Johnson as he continues to weigh his options.
#Broncos among the teams with interest in #Eagles free agent C.J. Gardner Johnson, per a league source @KPRC2
— Aaron Wilson (@AaronWilson_NFL) March 16, 2023

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Gardner-Johnson, 25, has ties to Denver’s current head coach Sean Payton dating back to their time in New Orleans. Last August, Payton was critical of the Saints sending Gardner-Johnson to Philadelphia, stating that the trade was a ‘steal’ and that he had no idea why New Orleans even picked up the phone.
Not without theatrics, the Eagles were able to retain both of their premier corners from a season ago, and we’re told that Philadelphia is working diligently on a long-term deal to have CJ back as well.
An integral part of Philly’s No. 1 pass defense last season, Gardner-Johnson shared the league lead in interceptions (six) despite missing five games with a lacerated kidney. His versatility in the slot also proved beneficial during the absence of Avonte Maddox.
For reference, Jessie Bates’ signed a 4-year, $64M deal with the Atlanta Falcons, making him the NFL’s fourth highest-paid safety. Gardner-Johnson won’t command quite as much, but his market value is projected to be around $13.3M AAV via Spotrac.
GM Howie Roseman has already made some magic happen this offseason; let’s see if he has one more trick up his sleeve.
C.J. Gardner-Johnson leads the league with 6 interceptions so far this season 😱 Are there more to come?
— NFL (@NFL) November 18, 2022
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Mandatory Credit: AP Photo | Steve Luciano