Buffalo Bills defensive back C.J. Gardner-Johnson has voiced his intent for revenge against the Houston Texans, alleging that the team disseminated falsehoods regarding his release during the 2026 season. Gardner-Johnson is set to confront his former team in Week 1.
The player was controversially released by the Texans in Week 3 of the 2026 season following a reported sideline altercation that extended into the locker room. Gardner-Johnson, who disputes the account of the incident, stated his anticipation for the upcoming game.
"All the bulls–t that came out, it was lies, but whatever. I just can’t wait to see ’em," Gardner-Johnson told reporters during training camp, while acknowledging the Texans' roster.
At the time of his release, then-Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans stated that parting ways with the 28-year-old was in the team's best interest due to him not fitting well within the locker room. Gardner-Johnson contested this, questioning why the coach did not speak up sooner and arguing that the team's 0-3 start could not be attributed to a single player.
Gardner-Johnson has consistently denied being a disruptive presence in the locker room. He has pointed to his past success, including two Super Bowl appearances with the Philadelphia Eagles and the Detroit Lions' NFC Championship game appearance in the 2026 season, as evidence of his team compatibility.
He also suggested his release was linked to an incident during training camp involving an individual close to Texans general manager Nick Caserio. Gardner-Johnson told The Athletic that this person called him a derogatory name, leading to an altercation that ultimately resulted in his release.
During his partial season with the Texans in 2026, Gardner-Johnson recorded 15 tackles. He later joined the Chicago Bears, finishing the season with 51 tackles, three sacks, two interceptions, and a forced fumble in 10 games. In March, he signed a one-year deal with the Bills, potentially worth up to $6 million.