CJ Gardner-Johnson Wants to Return to Eagles, Sends 7 Words of Sincere Apology to Nick Sirianni

Just months after being traded and airing public frustration, C.J. Gardner-Johnson has shocked the NFL community with a message that may signal his desire to return to the Philadelphia Eagles.

In a recent interview, Gardner-Johnson admitted regret over how things ended in Philly — not just with the fans, but with head coach Nick Sirianni. He even shared the 7-word apology he reportedly sent to the Eagles’ coach privately:

“I’m sorry. I never meant the disrespect.”

Though short, the message has stirred speculation across fan forums and social media, with many Eagles fans interpreting it as a peace offering and reunion pitch.

From Fiery Exit to Regretful Reflection

After a breakout season in 2022, Gardner-Johnson’s contract situation fell apart. He left for Detroit, returned briefly to Philadelphia in 2024, only to be traded again — this time to the Houston Texans.

Throughout that rollercoaster, CJ was never shy about speaking his mind. He once described Eagles fans as “obnoxious” and even hinted that the team didn’t value him.

But time — and distance — seems to have shifted his tone.

“I loved Philly. I probably should’ve never left. That’s where I felt most like myself,” he said during a recent podcast.

Is a Reunion Possible?

The Eagles’ secondary remains a work in progress, especially with younger players like Kelee Ringo, Cooper DeJean, and a shifting cornerback depth chart.

While CJ’s relationship with management had been rocky, his apology to Sirianni is a sign of maturity — and maybe, a door reopening.

Eagles insiders remain quiet on the matter, but one beat reporter noted:

“If the Eagles feel like they need energy and versatility in the slot, you don’t rule out a guy like CJ.”

With the team gearing up for a Super Bowl push and needing strong voices in the locker room, bringing back CJ could actually make sense — if both sides are willing to move forward.

Fan Reaction: Mixed But Intrigued

Some fans are ready to welcome him back immediately.

“He plays with fire. If he’s owning up to his mistakes, give him another shot,” one Eagles fan wrote.

Others remain skeptical, citing his emotional nature and off-field comments.

Still, the apology — especially one directed straight at Sirianni — is being viewed as a rare moment of honesty in a league often dominated by PR-speak.

More to Read:

• NFL Contract Guarantees: Could Eagles Offer CJ a Team-Friendly Deal?