It looks like the Eagles’ much-vaunted defense breakdown in 2022 is beginning. Security CJ Gardner-Johnson posted a moving video to his social media last night, in what could only be taken as a farewell to Philadelphia.
CJGJ was only with the Eagles for one season, but he definitely made an impact. He tied for the NFL lead in steals with six, despite missing five games with a lacerated kidney.
Gardner-Johnson, like some of the future former teammates, will test the free agency market and be handsomely rewarded for the way they played in midnight green.
The way the 2022 Eagles were built, it seemed all along that this team was a one-hit wonder. With so many players – especially on the defensive side of the ball – playing on expiring contracts, it was impossible to keep the unit together.
Howie Roseman admitted as much to the media a few weeks ago when asked about the retention of some of the team’s potential free agents.
“Even though we may not have the number of picks this year, we have a bunch of high picks. Next year we will have a lot of choices. We already have two more picks from two trades we made. Just by the number of free agents, we will have comp picks next year.
This potential exodus feels like the replica of the Eagles losing the Super Bowl, almost like losing the game again. Don’t forget that the team will still be very good next season. PointsBet lists the Eagles as the first runners in the NFC East and the second favorites to win the conference.
It’s just hard to say goodbye.
