Former Super Bowl Champion Playmaker Turns Down Eagles Practice Squad to Join Packers Workout
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(704x209:706x211)/C-J-Gardner-Johnson-3-0126-961ae11129c44ee68a05bc90301e1769.jpg)
The Green Bay Packers are adding veteran experience to one of the youngest safety rooms in the NFL — and they’re doing it in style.
Two days after being released by the Ravens, a former Super Bowl champion playmaker is heading north to Green Bay.
C.J. Gardner-Johnson, the fiery defensive back known for his swagger and versatility, has turned down an offer to rejoin the Philadelphia Eagles’ practice squad to join the Packers for a workout.
Sources confirmed the decision Wednesday night, calling it “a culture fit move” rather than a desperation signing — a sign that Green Bay is looking to blend leadership into its young secondary.
The Packers’ safety group has been impressive but extremely young. Star free safety Xavier McKinney anchors the unit, while rookies Evan Williams, Javon Bullard, and Kitan Oladapo have carried a heavy load through six weeks.
Despite no active injuries, Green Bay’s secondary lacks a veteran voice in pressure situations. Gardner-Johnson brings seven seasons of experience, 18 career interceptions, and a reputation for energy and toughness.
The 27-year-old was a pivotal part of the Eagles’ Super Bowl run in 2022, tying for the league lead with six interceptions — and earning respect as one of football’s top playmaking safeties.
His addition could give defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley more flexibility in nickel and hybrid packages, areas where the young safeties have occasionally struggled with pre-snap communication.
Green Bay’s defense ranks top 10 overall but has shown vulnerability on explosive plays — an area Gardner-Johnson’s instincts could immediately help.
When asked about his decision to turn down Philadelphia, he explained:
“Green Bay feels different. It’s young, hungry, and built on trust. I’ve played in a lot of locker rooms — this one has a soul, and that’s why I’m here.”
For the Packers, this workout isn’t about filling a hole — it’s about adding fire to a team with playoff ambitions and a growing defensive identity.
If the workout goes well, Gardner-Johnson could soon find himself reunited with another NFC powerhouse
Courtland Sutton Saves 19 Dogs From Euthanasia in Emotional Labor Day Weekend Rescue
Denver isn’t just celebrating football this week — it’s celebrating compassion. Over Labor Day weekend, wide receiver Courtland Sutton stepped off the field and straight into the headlines after saving nineteen dogs from a heartbreaking fate.
The story began in overcrowded Southern shelters, where dozens of dogs faced euthanasia due to lack of space. Instead of looking away, Sutton funded their transport to Colorado, ensuring each one had a new chance at life.
More than a financial gesture, Sutton personally joined friends and family to unload the transport van, play with the puppies, and support their path to adoption. A video of the moment went viral, surpassing one million views.
“This is bigger than football,” one Broncos fan wrote on X. “Courtland Sutton just gave nineteen families the chance to love instead of lose. That’s the kind of hero Denver deserves.”
Sutton didn’t stop at the rescue. That same weekend, he helped host a local adoption event, urging Denver families to step forward. Several dogs were adopted on the spot, turning his compassion into immediate impact.
On the field, Sutton has long been a steady, big-play presence for the Broncos’ offense. Off the field, this act proved his leadership reaches far beyond Empower Field at Mile High.
Broncos fans and national outlets quickly amplified the story, sparking conversations about overcrowded shelters and the importance of adoption. Sutton’s decision turned a local act into a national message of hope.
By saving nineteen dogs from death, Courtland Sutton gave Denver more than a feel-good headline. He gave the city a reminder that true greatness isn’t only measured in catches and touchdowns — it’s measured in lives saved.
