The Chicago Bears have endured one of the roughest injury bouts in recent memory this season, particularly on the defensive side. At one point, they were without their top four cornerbacks for a game. Now they'll be without their top three linebackers for at least two. When things like this happen, you have no choice but to scour the free agent market for help. That often involves taking calculated risks on names other teams don't want to touch. Such was the case with CJ Gardner-Johnson.
After snagging six interceptions and winning the Super Bowl with Philadelphia last season, one would think the defensive back was on top of the world. Instead, his outspoken personality led to his being traded by the Eagles to Houston, who then cut him midway through the season. A failed stint on Baltimore's practice squad became a low point. Perhaps he'd become too radioactive.
However, the Bears were desperate enough to consider signing him. They needed assurances that he would do more good than harm to them. Defensive coordinator Dennis Allen, who'd worked with Gardner-Johnson in New Orleans, insisted he could make it work. It turns out he wasn't the only one.
ESPN revealed another influence.
CORNERBACK Tyrique Stevenson has known Gardner-Johnson since their days at the University of Florida. Gardner-Johnson served as Stevenson's host on a recruiting visit, and he was aware of Gardner-Johnson's reputation long before they became NFL teammates with the Bears.
"[The outside perception] was like, he's a hothead, he doesn't listen," Stevenson said. "Just from what I read and all that, it was just [that he was considered] a little d-----bag.
"But he's a great guy, great competitor, and I feel like sometimes that competitiveness gets portrayed as cockiness and arrogance."
CJ Gardner-Johnson seems to have been humbled.
His past few months were a rude wakeup call after his high moment in the Super Bowl. It was proof that no matter the amount of on-field success you have, teams have limits for what they're willing to put up with. If you're going to make yourself a distraction, they'll sacrifice productivity for peace. Seeing three top-tier organizations prove that to him in the space of a few months must've been a nasty shock to his ego. CJ Gardner-Johnson never thought his NFL career would be in jeopardy like that.
That phone call from the Bears must've felt like a single mote of light in a dark tunnel. It's little wonder the defensive back has played with a clear purpose since arriving. His impact can't be overstated. Regardless of the final outcome, the signing will be viewed as a win-win for both parties. Not only did it help save Chicago's season, but it also helped save Gardner-Johnson's career.
