Since being released from the Ravens practice squad Oct. 14, defensive back C.J. Gardner-Johnson had been seeking a perfect spot to continue his NFL career.
The seventh-year pro feels that he found that situation in Chicago, where he will reunite with two familiar faces after signing with the Bears on Wednesday.
Defensive coordinator Dennis Allen served in the same capacity with the Saints during Gardner-Johnson's first three NFL seasons in New Orleans from 2019-21. He then played for the Lions in 2023 when Bears coach Ben Johnson was Detroit's offensive coordinator.
"Coach 'DA' gave me a chance when I was a rookie in 2019, and I played with coach Ben in Detroit," Gardner-Johnson said. "Talking to them on the phone and hearing how much they care about me and understanding as a player that they care for me, it felt like the right spot for me."
The Bears signed Gardner-Johnson to bolster a depleted secondary that's missing its top three cornerbacks. Jaylon Johnson (groin) and Kyler Gordon (calf/groin) are on injured reserve, and Tyrique Stevenson sat out last weekend's game in Baltimore with a shoulder injury. Stevenson returned to practice on a limited basis Wednesday, but his status for Sunday's contest in Cincinnati is uncertain.
"Our injury report last week was pretty [lengthy] and then this week, same thing," Johnson said. "We've got guys dinged up and in and out. We have an opportunity, and he was available. He's a good football player. There are a number of us that have been with him in the past, and so it's a good fit."
Johnson revealed that the Bears intend to line up Gardner-Johnson at nickel back in place of Gordon, who must sit out the next three games while on IR.
"Really, that's how I started my career," Gardner-Johnson said. "Give me a chance to get close to the ball, make plays and make it easier on the guys on the back end. When I'm closer to the ball, coach DA and coach Ben know what I can do."
Gardner-Johnson was selected by the Saints in the fourth round of the 2019 draft out of Florida. He was traded to the Eagles in 2022, signed with the Lions in 2023 and rejoined Philadelphia in 2024, winning the Super Bowl. The 5-11, 210-pounder was dealt to the Texans in March and was released Sept. 23.
Gardner-Johnson has appeared in 77 NFL games with 64 starts, recording 319 tackles, 22 tackles-for-loss, 18 interceptions, 51 pass breakups and 4.0 sacks. He had six interceptions in each of his two seasons with Philadelphia in 2022 and 2024.
The Florida native practiced with the Bears for the first time Wednesday.
"He took every rep," said safety Kevin Byard III. "He was out there making plays and bouncing around and bringing some juice, so I'm excited to have him. I think he'll be good for our defense."
