The Philadelphia Eagles have sent safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson to the Houston Texans in exchange for offensive lineman Kenyon Green.
The deal, confirmed on March 11, 2025, also involves a swap of draft picks: the Eagles will receive a 2026 fifth-round pick, while the Texans get a 2026 sixth-rounder.
This move addresses key positional needs for both teams, but is it a win-win? Let’s break it down.
Why the Eagles Made the Move
The Eagles have been looking to strengthen their offensive line depth, and Kenyon Green is a young player with upside. The former first-round pick (15th overall in 2022) had a shaky start with the Texans, struggling with pass protection and consistency. However, at just 23 years old, Green still has plenty of time to develop into a reliable starting guard.
Philadelphia’s O-line has long been one of the best in the league, but with Jason Kelce retiring and uncertainty around Lane Johnson’s long-term future, reinforcing the interior line became a priority. Green gives them a developmental option who could benefit from working with the Eagles’ elite coaching staff.
Why the Texans Wanted Gardner-Johnson
For the Texans, adding C.J. Gardner-Johnson is a significant upgrade to their secondary. Houston’s defense, though improved under head coach DeMeco Ryans, struggled with depth in the secondary last season. Gardner-Johnson brings versatility, leadership, and a proven ability to make big plays.
Last season, Gardner-Johnson recorded 59 tackles, six interceptions, and 12 pass defenses over 16 games. He was a crucial part of the Eagles’ defense during their 2022 Super Bowl run before spending a year with the Lions and then returning to Philly. Now, he’ll be tasked with strengthening a Houston defense that aims to contend in the AFC.
How This Trade Affects Both Teams
- Eagles’ perspective: They lose a playmaker in the secondary but gain a young, former first-round offensive lineman who fills a pressing need.
- Texans’ perspective: They add a veteran safety who can immediately impact their defense but give up a potential long-term guard.
Who Won the Trade?
- Short-term: The Texans likely benefit more, as Gardner-Johnson will step in as a starter immediately and help solidify their secondary.
- Long-term: If Kenyon Green can develop, the Eagles may come out ahead by securing a future starter on the offensive line.
Ultimately, both teams are filling key holes, making this a trade that makes sense for both sides, but only time will tell who really got the better deal.
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