Eagles Trade C.J. Gardner-Johnson to Texans in Draft Picks Swap

PHILADELPHIA, Pa. — The Philadelphia Eagles have traded star cornerback C.J. Gardner-Johnson to the Houston Texans in exchange for offensive guard Kenyon Green, NFL Network Insiders Ian Rapoport and Mike Garafolo reported Tuesday. This trade includes the exchange of draft picks, with Philadelphia receiving a 2026 fifth-round pick while Houston secures a 2026 sixth-rounder.

The move comes as the NFL gears up for the free agency period, which officially begins on Wednesday, March 12, 2025. As teams finalize their rosters and make critical decisions, trades agreed upon will become official when the league year commences.

“C.J. was an important part of our success last season, but the trade allows us to bolster our offensive line,” said Eagles General Manager Howie Roseman. “Kenyon brings a lot of youth and potential to the team.”

In his time with the Eagles, Gardner-Johnson has emerged as a key player in the secondary, showcasing his skills and ability to read quarterbacks. In 2024, he recorded 76 tackles, five interceptions, and 15 passes defended, helping to solidify the Eagles’ defense.

Meanwhile, Green enters Philadelphia looking to make a significant impact after being a first-round pick in the 2022 draft. Last season, he played in all 17 regular-season games and is expected to contribute to the Eagles’ offensive line, providing protection for the quarterback as the team prepares for the upcoming season.

As part of this trade, the Eagles also look to capitalize on the increased salary cap for the upcoming year, which has risen to $279.2 million, giving teams greater flexibility to sign and trade players actively.

The transaction is part of a flurry of moves as teams strategize ahead of free agency and the upcoming NFL Draft, which will further shape the rosters heading into the 2025 season.