There’s something remarkable about the ability to unsettle an opponent—disrupting their focus and performance simply by being an irritant. It’s a trait most would shy away from, but for Philadelphia Eagles veteran safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson, it’s part of what defines his reputation in the NFL. Alongside his undeniable talent, this notoriety may be a key factor in his sustained success.
In an anonymous survey conducted by The Athletic on November 27, 110 NFL players were asked to name the “Most Annoying Player in the NFL.” Gardner-Johnson emerged as the clear winner, securing 20.9% of the votes, far ahead of second-place finisher, Las Vegas Raiders defensive tackle Christian Wilkins, who garnered 11.9%.
This marks the second consecutive year Gardner-Johnson has led a category in The Athletic’s poll. In 2023, he topped the list as the “Biggest Trash Talker.” The 2024 iteration broadened the scope to “Most Annoying,” and Gardner-Johnson retained the top spot. According to The Athletic, “Last season we asked players to name the biggest trash-talker. This year, we left it up to the players to define what makes someone annoying. Unsurprisingly, Gardner-Johnson, last year’s biggest trash-talker, took the crown again.”
A History of Fines and Agitation
Gardner-Johnson’s reputation as a disruptive presence began early in his career. A standout at Cocoa High in Florida alongside Tampa Bay Buccaneers cornerback Jamel Dean, he went on to star at the University of Florida. Drafted by the New Orleans Saints in the fourth round of the 2019 NFL Draft, he transitioned from part-time starter in his rookie year to a full-time starter in his second season.
Since entering the league, Gardner-Johnson has accumulated nine fines for incidents involving taunting, fighting, and unsportsmanlike conduct. Notably, he’s already been fined three times for taunting during the first 11 games of the 2024 season. However, in 2022, he enjoyed a standout season with a career-high 67 tackles and an NFL-leading six interceptions in just 12 games—all without incurring a single fine. His efforts helped the Eagles reach the Super Bowl that year.
Returning to Philadelphia
Gardner-Johnson’s current stint with the Eagles marks his second tenure with the team. Originally traded to Philadelphia by the Saints in 2022, he played a key role in their Super Bowl run that season. He later signed a one-year, $6.5 million deal with the Detroit Lions in 2023 but was limited to three regular-season games due to a torn pectoral muscle. Despite the injury, he returned for the playoffs, helping the Lions reach the NFC Championship Game.
In March 2024, the Eagles brought Gardner-Johnson back, signing him to a three-year, $27 million contract. His return has once again made him a pivotal—and polarizing—figure in Philadelphia’s defense, blending his on-field talent with his infamous ability to get under opponents’ skin.
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