Lions' newest addition shocks NFL world with controversial comments
Newly signed safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson is already becoming one of the Detroit Lions’ most-liked players after his introductory press conference. The Lions signed Gardner-Johnson to a one-year deal worth $8 million on Sunday. Gardner-Johnson’s contract is considered to be a massive steal for Detroit considering he led the NFL in interceptions (6) while only playing […]
Newly signed safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson is already becoming one of the Detroit Lions’ most-liked players after his introductory press conference.
The Lions signed Gardner-Johnson to a one-year deal worth $8 million on Sunday. Gardner-Johnson’s contract is considered to be a massive steal for Detroit considering he led the NFL in interceptions (6) while only playing in 12 games in 2022 with the Philadelphia Eagles.
Gardner-Johnson is on his third stop in five seasons after playing three seasons with the New Orleans Saints and spending last year with the Eagles. He took to the podium on Monday to compare his new team to his previous employers.
“To be honest with you, it’s a little better, but that’s just on me,” Gardner-Johnson stated. “Everybody can look from the outside looking in, but that’s just on me, from the outside looking in, but this team has talent. This team, we can win the division, possibly win the division. Everybody should feel that way, but when I look at a team coming from where I came from, and the teams I’ve played on that won multiple divisions, been to playoff games, and been to the Super Bowl, this team has what it takes to get there, win the division and get to the playoffs.”
To say that the Lions currently have a better roster than the Eagles did last season has sent shockwaves across the NFL community. But it's something Detroit's fanbase should love to hear.
Gardner-Johnson is absolutely right when he says that the Lions have what it takes to win the division. By signing Cameron Sutton and Emmanuel Moseley along with Gardner-Johnson, the Lions could transform into a top-10 defense in 2023.
His experience with Lions DC Aaron Glenn was a major factor in his decision to sign with the team. The two have a relationship that dates back to his high school days. Glenn served as the Saints secondary coach in Gardner-Johnson's first two seasons in the NFL.
Detroit has plenty of weapons on the offensive side of the ball with plenty of moves left to make. Head coach Dan Campbell will take the helm of the most talented roster the Lions have seen in his tenure. In a weakened NFC North, Detroit is primed for a playoff push with its new personnel next season.
