The Buffalo Bills released veteran safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson on Tuesday, a day after he completed a one-game NFL suspension for spitting in the direction of Las Vegas Raiders players during a game on Oct. 18. The team did not provide further details in its announcement, though the league discipline and Gardner-Johnson's inconsistent performance were considered contributing factors.
The 28-year-old signed a one-year contract with Buffalo in March, marking his sixth team in five seasons. He started six games at safety and was part of a secondary that ranked among the NFL's worst against the pass even before his ejection in the 33-30 win over the Raiders. Gardner-Johnson apologized to teammates and fans after the incident and lost his appeal of the suspension.
Coach Joe Brady was non-committal about Gardner-Johnson's status when the suspension was issued during the Bills' bye week and sidestepped questions about the player on Monday following Buffalo's 36-10 win over Baltimore. Brady said he had no discussions with Gardner-Johnson after the player returned to attend meetings.
In Gardner-Johnson's absence Sunday, veteran backup Damar Hamlin started as the Bills limited the Ravens to 144 total yards, though Baltimore played much of the game without starting quarterback Lamar Jackson and backup Tyler Huntley due to injuries. The secondary also received help from practice squad call-ups Geno Stone and Te'Cory Couch.
General manager Brandon Beane acknowledged he consulted with coaches and had a lengthy discussion with Gardner-Johnson about his reputation before signing him. The Bills, now 6-1, are off until Thursday when they resume practice to prepare for a Monday night game at Minnesota.
Sources: Las Vegas Review-Journal
Original reporting: Las Vegas Review-Journal →
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