The Buffalo Bills have released safety CJ Gardner-Johnson, formerly a Super Bowl champion, following a one-game suspension for spitting at an opponent during a Week 6 game against the Las Vegas Raiders. The incident, which occurred just before halftime, saw Gardner-Johnson ejected for spitting at Raiders center Tyler Linderbaum and tight end Brock Bowers.
Despite head coach Joe Brady's initial statements that the team did not intend to part ways with the player, the Bills announced his release on Tuesday. NFL Network reported that Gardner-Johnson's release was more closely tied to inconsistent on-field performances than the spitting incident itself. Damar Hamlin is now expected to take over as the Bills' starting safety.
The suspension was served during the Bills' Week 7 bye week, meaning Gardner-Johnson missed the team's Week 8 game against the Baltimore Ravens. Coach Brady had previously indicated Gardner-Johnson would return to the lineup for Week 9, but has since reversed that decision.
In six games for the Bills this season, Gardner-Johnson recorded 26 tackles and one interception. This move marks his sixth NFL team in eight seasons, having previously played for the New Orleans Saints, Philadelphia Eagles, Detroit Lions, Houston Texans, and Chicago Bears. He signed a one-year contract with the Bills.
Gardner-Johnson was ejected in 2024 while playing for Philadelphia and has faced multiple fines throughout his career, though this is his first suspension. The spitting incident was captured on camera and occurred in front of an official, leading to his immediate ejection. The NFL swiftly issued a statement, citing a violation of Rule 12, Section 3, Article 1, which pertains to acts contrary to sportsmanship.
Following the incident, Gardner-Johnson issued an apology on social media, calling his actions "inappropriate, unnecessary, and not a reflection of the respect I have for him or this game." He stated that while he takes full accountability and recognizes the need to hold himself to a higher standard, one moment does not define his character. He concluded by vowing to learn from the experience and continue to lead with integrity, passion, and respect.