CJ Gardner-Johnson throws shade at former Eagles safety Kevin Byard

After a rather tumultuous exit from Philadelphia in 2022, the Eagles and CJ Gardner-Johnson mended their differences and agreed to reunite this offseason.

In Gardner-Johnson’s absence last year, GM Howie Roseman attempted to patch up the safety position multiple ways, including a late-season trade for two-time All-Pro Kevin Byard.

Byard failed to make an impact upon arrival, largely due to poor coaching, leading to his release in March. In ten appearances with the Eagles, he recorded 75 tackles, three passes defended, and an interception.

Despite his struggles, Byard landed a two-year deal worth $15M with the Chicago Bears when free agency opened.

Even Madden developers still believe in Byard’s abilities, evidenced by his top-ten rating in this year’s edition of the franchise. Gardner-Johnson, however, feels as though Byard’s rating is undeserved.

Got replaced by #5 (see where they at), #7 couldn’t live up to the hype (last year was evidence)! The rest , I got way more ball production sooooooo WHEN MADDEN DROPPING!? https://t.co/336Q4Ywn1z

— C.J. Gardner-Johnson (@CGJXXIII) July 29, 2024

Gardner-Johnson, as he often does, made his thoughts known and claimed he should be among the top-ranked at his position. If this was coming off his 2022 season, when he led the league in interceptions, CJ would have a case.

After signing with Detroit last offseason, Gardner-Johnson missed the majority of the year, so it’s understandable why he’d be rated lower than his peers.

Alas, Gardner-Johnson will never pass up the chance to voice his opinion. He’ll have a chance to prove Madden wrong as an integral part of Vic Fangio’s retooled defense.

.@CGJXXIII is flying back to Philly 🦅 @Eagles pic.twitter.com/hjVwKQ7U4C

— NFL (@NFL) March 12, 2024

Mandatory Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck | USA TODAY Sports