Buffalo Bills release safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson

The Buffalo Bills announced Tuesday that they have released safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson. The move follows a one-game suspension the veteran player served for a "spitting incident" during the team's Week 6 victory over the Las Vegas Raiders.

Incident and Apology

During the Week 6 game against the Raiders, cameras captured Gardner-Johnson spitting toward star tight end Brock Bowers. This incident resulted in a suspension that caused Gardner-Johnson to miss the team's Sunday win over the Baltimore Ravens.

Following the incident, Gardner-Johnson used social media to issue an apology. "My passion and competitive nature have always been a huge part of who I am, but I also understand that there is a line that should never be crossed," Gardner-Johnson wrote. He continued, "The gesture I made toward my opponent was inappropriate, unnecessary, and not a reflection of the respect I have for him or this game. There is no excuse for my actions, and I take full accountability. No matter how emotional or intense the competition gets, I have to hold myself to a higher standard."

Performance and Statistics

Gardner-Johnson has faced disciplinary actions previously. Tim Graham of The Athletic noted that the player had been fined 13 times for $194,924 leading into the current season.

During his time with the Buffalo Bills this season, Gardner-Johnson started six games. His statistical contributions included:

• 26 total tackles
• Two passes defended
• One interception

While Gardner-Johnson led the NFL with six interceptions during the 2022 campaign while playing for the Philadelphia Eagles, his performance in Buffalo has been described by some as inconsistent. According to Pro Football Focus, his overall player grade of 55.2 ranks 71st of 98 eligible safeties for the 2026 season.

Regarding the reasons for his release, Cameron Wolfe of NFL Network reported that the decision was related more to inconsistency in his play than the spitting incident, noting the team felt there were too many "what the hell is he doing?" plays.

Career Background

Gardner-Johnson is 28 years old and has played for several teams throughout his career, including the New Orleans Saints, Eagles, Detroit Lions, Houston Texans, Chicago Bears, and the Bills.

With his departure from the Buffalo roster, Damar Hamlin is in line to start at safety. Gardner-Johnson's release leaves the Bills without the veteran safety as they continue their season.

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Sources

• bleacherreport.com: CJGJ Released by Bills After Serving 1-Game Suspension for Spitting at Raiders
• nbcsports.com: Bills release S C.J. Gardner-Johnson after one-game suspension - NBC Sports

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