Bills cut safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson after suspension and inconsistent play
The Buffalo Bills released veteran safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson on Tuesday, a day after he completed a one‑game suspension for spitting at a Las Vegas Raiders player. The move follows his six‑game stint in which he allowed a 64.7% completion rate and an 83.5 passer rating, recorded 26 tackles, two passes defensed and one interception, and was fined more than $194,000. Gardner-Johnson had signed a one‑year, $6 million contract in March 2026 after playing for six previous teams. Defensive back Damar Hamlin is expected to fill the vacancy.
Key facts
- Gardner-Johnson was suspended after spitting toward Raiders tight end Brock Bowers in Week 6.
- He previously played for the Saints, Eagles, Lions, Texans, Ravens and Bears before joining the Bills.
- The league granted Buffalo a one‑day roster exemption to keep an extra player after his suspension.
- Coach Joe Brady said he had not spoken with Gardner-Johnson after his return to team meetings.
- Gardner-Johnson was part of the 2024 Eagles team that won the Super Bowl.
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Why it matters
The release highlights disciplinary and performance standards in the NFL.
What changed
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