Jacksonville Jaguars running back Bhayshul Tuten (33) is tackled by Houston Texans safety CJ. Gardner-Johnson (8) during the second quarter of an NFL football matchup at EverBank Stadium, Sunday, Sept. 21, 2025, in Jacksonville, Fla.

C.J. Gardner-Johnson is on the move – again.

The safety was released by the Houston Texans on Tuesday, according to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport. It ends a brief run in the "Space City" after the team acquired him from the Philadelphia Eagles in March. Gardner-Johnson has been somewhat of a prickly player over the years, known to ruffle feathers on occasion.

Normally that is reserved for the opposition, but reports have indicated that Gardner-Johnson and the Texans had some "friction behind the scenes" that ultimately led to his release, according to KPC2's Aaron Wilson. Gardner-Johnson wanted to blitz more and was unhappy with his role on the team.

He appeared in just three games for DeMeco Ryans' team and is now set to hit the open market. Here's a look at some of the best landing spots for the safety.

C.J. Gardner-Johnson landing spots

New York Jets

Probably the leader in the clubhouse from a team need and fit perspective, the Jets are in desperate need of a capable safety. The once-feared defense has failed to cover anyone through the first three weeks, and Aaron Glenn can't allow it to continue. Speaking of Glenn, he has some history with Gardner-Johnson, dating back to his time as the defensive coordinator in Detroit.

CJGJ had another unceremonious exit following his time in the Motor City, but that was primarily directed at the city and his teammates, rather than Glenn. The fit makes sense, but time will tell if Glenn wants to bring in a big personality like that while he tries to establish a culture with his new team.

Dallas Cowboys

The Cowboys are another team that has struggled to defend in the early part of this season. Dallas' defense had its soul zapped after the Micah Parsons trade and has never shied away from players like Gardner-Johnson. Parsons isn't walking through that door again, so Gardner-Johnson's blend of attitude and skill might just be what the Cowboys need to get their swagger back.

Kansas City Chiefs

Most of the Chiefs' struggles have been attributed to their offense, but Andy Reid said at halftime of "Sunday Night Football" that his team needed to add some more energy. It's what spurred his fiery sideline exchange with Travis Kelce. If nothing else, Gardner-Johnson fits the mold of someone who would bring some juice – for better or worse.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: What teams make sense for C.J. Gardner-Johnson after Texans' release? Landing spots

Reporting by Nick Brinkerhoff, USA TODAY / USA TODAY

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