Chicago Bears safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson isn't exactly thrilled about returning to Philadelphia this weekend in a crucial matchup against his former team. His feelings towards Philly seem somewhat fleeting, stemming from being traded by the Eagles three years ago after spending time with the New Orleans Saints.
Gardner-Johnson's tenure in Philadelphia was quite promising, particularly during their 2023 season when he led the team to another Super Bowl appearance despite falling short against the Kansas City Chiefs. During that campaign, he recorded impressive numbers of 35 combined tackles and six interceptions for 116 yards and a touchdown.
However, his enthusiasm seems dampened now as he prepares to face his old team once again. In an interview, Gardner-Johnson expressed ambivalence towards his time in Philadelphia, stating that he was "shipped off" after only a short stint with the Eagles.
The contrast between Gardner-Johnson's sentiments and that of the Bears couldn't be more stark. The team is currently riding high on a 8-3 record and comes into this matchup following an energetic win against the Pittsburgh Steelers last week. Meanwhile, the struggling Eagles offense seems to be creating an identity crisis.
Gardner-Johnson's indifference towards his former team may just prove to be a blessing in disguise for the Bears, as they look to capitalize on their current hot streak and take down their division rivals.
Gardner-Johnson's tenure in Philadelphia was quite promising, particularly during their 2023 season when he led the team to another Super Bowl appearance despite falling short against the Kansas City Chiefs. During that campaign, he recorded impressive numbers of 35 combined tackles and six interceptions for 116 yards and a touchdown.
However, his enthusiasm seems dampened now as he prepares to face his old team once again. In an interview, Gardner-Johnson expressed ambivalence towards his time in Philadelphia, stating that he was "shipped off" after only a short stint with the Eagles.
The contrast between Gardner-Johnson's sentiments and that of the Bears couldn't be more stark. The team is currently riding high on a 8-3 record and comes into this matchup following an energetic win against the Pittsburgh Steelers last week. Meanwhile, the struggling Eagles offense seems to be creating an identity crisis.
Gardner-Johnson's indifference towards his former team may just prove to be a blessing in disguise for the Bears, as they look to capitalize on their current hot streak and take down their division rivals.
and Philly was looking sharp with him leading the way! Now he's trading in his midnight green for the black and red of the Bears, kinda feeling like he got "ship-ed off" 
️ to a new team. I'm loving the Bears' vibe right now though, they're on fire 
and could totally take down those Eagles this weekend! Gardner-Johnson might be feeling meh about Philly, but we'll see if it's really a blessing in disguise for him 
But now, it's like he's all over the place 
. One minute he's hyped, the next he's dissin' his own city 
. I mean, I get it, he got traded & felt shipped off... but c'mon, CJ, be more supportive of ur old team! 
. The Bears r on fire right now 
. Philly's struggles r gonna make it tough 4 them 2 take down their rivals 
. I'm rootin' 4 the Bears, but I feel bad 4 Philly fans... 
. And he played super well in Philly too, led the team to the Super Bowl 
! So like what's going on here? Is he really that bitter about leaving? Or is it just one of those things where you don't wanna go back to a place and face your past? 
And omg the Bears are so hyped right now, 8-3 record is no joke 
. Gardner-Johnson's ambivalence towards his old team might be just what he needs to turn around his performance and lead the Bears to victory 
. Bring it on, Bears!
... seems he's still hurting over it 