TEXANS SHAKE UP THE GRIDIRON: BLOCKBUSTER TRADE BRINGS C.J. GARDNER-JOHNSON TO HOUSTON!
The Houston Texans just set the NFL rumor mill on fire with a jaw-dropping trade that sends Philadelphia Eagles ball-hawk safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson to Houston in exchange for left guard Kenyon Green. And because no deal is complete without some draft drama, the trade also includes a pick swap: the Eagles snag a 2026 fifth-round pick, while the Texans grab a 2026 sixth-rounder.
With six interceptions in 2024 alone, Gardner-Johnson is a game-changer for a Texans pass defense that already ranked sixth in passing yards allowed and second in total interceptions last season. But make no mistake—this move isn’t just about beefing up Houston’s secondary. The Texans needed a playmaker after losing safety Eric Murray to the Jacksonville Jaguars on a three-year, $22.5 million deal, and Gardner-Johnson fits the bill perfectly.
BLOCKBUSTER MOVES KEEP COMING!
But wait, the Texans aren’t done flexing in free agency. They’ve also locked in a deal with veteran free-agent guard Laken Tomlinson, an ironman on the offensive line who’s started 155 games in his career. Tomlinson, 33, just wrapped up a strong season with the Seattle Seahawks, where he played over 99% of the team’s offensive snaps at left guard.
Meanwhile, Houston isn’t just making moves—they’re making statements. The team is also bringing back defensive lineman Mario Edwards Jr. on a two-year, $9.5 million contract. Edwards started 12 games last season, racking up 31 tackles and three sacks, proving he still has plenty of gas left in the tank.
WHAT’S NEXT FOR HOUSTON?
This latest trade marks the second major shake-up for the Texans’ offensive line in free agency. Just a day earlier, Houston sent star left tackle Laremy Tunsil to the Washington Commanders in exchange for a haul of draft picks, including a 2025 third- and seventh-rounder and 2026 second- and fourth-rounders. The Commanders also get a fourth-round pick from Houston in this year’s draft.
Green, the former first-round pick by Houston, struggled last season, ultimately losing his starting job in 2024. Now, he gets a fresh start in Philadelphia, where the Eagles will look to revive his career and solidify their offensive front.
As for Gardner-Johnson, his farewell to Philly was as fiery as his play on the field. Taking to X, he expressed his love for the city and his teammates while making it clear that the decision to leave wasn’t his.
“This decision wasn’t mine, but I walk away proud of what we built together,” Gardner-Johnson posted. “To my teammates: Brothers, we bled, cursed, and laughed through it all. To the coaches and front office: Thank you for trusting a kid from Florida with a chip on his shoulder to lead this defense. And to the Philly Faithful—you’re unmatched.”
FINAL TAKE: TEXANS GOING ALL-IN?
With these high-stakes trades and signings, Houston is sending a loud and clear message: They aren’t just aiming to compete—they’re gunning for dominance. Will these bold moves push them closer to championship contention, or will they backfire in spectacular fashion? Buckle up, Texans fans. The ride is just getting started.
