C.J. Gardner-Johnson’s Unexpected Free Agency and the NFL’s Little-Known Trade Rule
C.J. Gardner-Johnson is once again searching for a new NFL team. However, a quick return to his former squad is off the table, thanks to a specific, often overlooked rule within the league’s collective bargaining agreement.
Gardner-Johnson was recently traded from the Philadelphia Eagles to the Houston Texans, along with guard Kenyon Green and a draft pick swap, prior to the 2025 season. Unfortunatly, his time in Houston was brief, lasting only three games before his release.
Reports from texans beat writer Aaron Wilson indicate the release stemmed from internal disagreements. Specifically, Gardner-Johnson reportedly expressed dissatisfaction with his role and desired more opportunities to blitz.This abrupt departure has naturally sparked speculation about his next destination.
But don’t expect to see him back in midnight green anytime soon. The NFL has a rule preventing a traded player from immediately rejoining their original team. Let’s break down exactly why:
* The Rule: A player traded to a new team cannot return to their previous team unless thay’ve played a minimum of four games for the acquiring team.
* The Waiting Period: Even after meeting the four-game requirement, two full seasons must pass before a return becomes permissible.
This means Philadelphia will have to wait until after the 2027 season to even consider bringing Gardner-Johnson back into the fold.
Interestingly, this same rule recently impacted another Eagles transaction. In 2024, Philadelphia traded pass rusher Haason Reddick to the New York Jets. Reddick’s situation involved a contract dispute, creating a standoff with his new team that extended into the regular season.
This rule, while obscure to many fans, highlights the complexities of NFL player movement and the league’s attempts to regulate trades and prevent quick reversals. You can expect Gardner-johnson to be a highly sought-after free agent,but his options are limited when it comes to a reunion with the Eagles in the near future.
