Chauncey Gardner-Johnson lasted just three games in Houston.
The Houston Texans are releasing the starting safety, NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport reported, per sources informed of the situation. The team later announced Gardner-Johnson's departure.
Houston acquired Gardner-Johnson in a March trade with the Philadelphia Eagles in exchange for guard Kenyon Green and a late-round 2026 pick swap.
The move comes as a surprise after CJGJ started the first three games for the 0-3 Texans. He compiled 15 tackles and allowed six catches on eight targets, per Pro Football Focus.
Heralded for his physical play, Gardner-Johnson's boisterous nature has led him to become a nomad. After three seasons in New Orleans, he spent a season with Philly, one with Detroit, then went back to the Eagles for their Super Bowl run. The trash-talker didn't make it out of September before Houston moved on. It's unclear what the impetus is behind the early season release.
The Texans are left with two true safeties on the roster, Calen Bullock and M.J. Stewart. Veteran safety Jimmie Ward was reinstated from the Commissioner's Exempt List on Monday, but was then placed on the physically unable to perform list. He is eligible to return after this week.
