Controversial NFL safety CJ Gardner-Johnson has parted ways with the Baltimore Ravens only a week after joining the team, according to reports.
The short-lived stint came to light on Tuesday when ESPN’s Adam Schefter revealed that both sides reached an “amicable mutual decision” regarding the release.
The 27-year-old defensive back had been added to the Ravens’ practice squad, but changes to the team’s roster quickly altered his plans.
Competition in Baltimore Spurs Departure
Gardner-Johnson’s agent, Kevin Conner, explained that his client sought a clearer path to playing time after Baltimore acquired veteran safety Alohi Gilman from the Los Angeles Chargers in a trade involving pass rusher Odafe Oweh.
“After the Ravens traded for a safety, we were looking for a clearer path to play,” Conner said, shedding light on the decision to leave.
The development marks another setback in what has been a turbulent few weeks for Gardner-Johnson.
A Rocky Few Weeks in the NFL
Earlier in September, Gardner-Johnson was released by the Houston Texans just weeks after being traded there from the Philadelphia Eagles.
He had helped the Eagles win the Super Bowl in February but became a free agent after appearing in only three games with Houston.
Aaron Wilson of KPRC2 reported that Gardner-Johnson had been a disruptive presence behind the scenes in Houston, criticizing teammates in the secondary, questioning contract sizes, and expressing frustration over his role on the team.
Just two weeks after leaving Houston, he found a new opportunity with Baltimore — only for it to be extremely short-lived.
Taylor Swift Fans Rejoice Amid Controversy
Gardner-Johnson’s release will likely please Taylor Swift fans, who were infuriated by the player’s actions earlier this year.
During the Eagles’ Super Bowl LIX victory parade, he wore a sweatshirt that mocked Swift with a crude message referencing her boyfriend Travis Kelce and the Kansas City Chiefs.
Additionally, Gardner-Johnson shared an Instagram story mocking Kelce and referencing his ex-girlfriend Kayla Nicole — a post widely criticized as body-shaming the pop superstar.
Following his Texans release, Swift’s fans quickly took to social media to celebrate.
One wrote on X, “Karma is a beautiful thing,” while another shared a photo of the offensive sweatshirt, adding, “Life comes at you fast.”
Former Eagles Connection
Interestingly, Gardner-Johnson previously played alongside Jason Kelce — Travis Kelce’s older brother — during his time with Philadelphia.
Swift, who is now engaged to Travis Kelce, has not publicly commented on the controversy surrounding the player.