CBS Sports: In the wake of the Gardner-Johnson deal, DeMeco Ryans of the Texans sends a strong message to the Eagles.

The Texans’ acquisition of CJ Gardner-Johnson is adored by DeMeco Ryans.

When the Houston Texans dealt underperforming former first-round selection Kenyon Green and a 2026 fifth-round pick to the Super Bowl Champion Philadelphia Eagles for CJ Gardner-Johnson and a sixth-round pick, the response was rather one-sided.

Although CJGJ’s contract has four void years worth about $11 million on the books going forward, and saying goodbye to Green was an admission of defeat, Gardner-Johnson was a vital member of the Eagles’ last two Super Bowl teams, with the team disintegrating in the year between because he was with the Lions. Adding a guy with Gardner-Johnson’s pedigree for such a low return was as near to a no-brainer as one could hope for if the Texans intended to reach that level in the future, right?

Well, while speaking to reporters in Palm Beach, DeMeco Ryans certainly thought so, as he noted that Philly fans’ collective disappointment reassured him that the Texans had landed themselves a good one.

Many Philadelphians are curious, therefore I should ask you all! I’m thrilled to receive him since you people are disappointed that he departed,” Ryans stated through Zach Berman. “His love for football and his enthusiasm for the game are evident on the recording. I can’t wait to collaborate with him. I can’t wait to see what he will contribute to our squad. Now you’re talking about a man who has played in the Super Bowl.

Fans were almost as thrilled to see Green go as they were to bring CJGJ to town, especially after the addition of players like Cam Robinson and Laken Tomlinson to bolster the offensive line. If fan reaction was the only factor used to determine the winner of a trade, then the Texans definitely hit this one out of the park.

Gardner-Johnson’s position versatility and desire undoubtedly improve the squad, even though the notion of paying him $3–4 million year while he’s not with the team may seem intimidating, particularly if he re-signs with Philadelphia. Either way, Ryan’s defense will benefit from playing him at free safety, in the box, or even at his slot cornerback position, which he played for the New Orleans Saints.