Eagles Trade CJ Gardner-Johnson, Possible Opportunity for Lewis Cine
The Eagles have dealt safety CJ Gardner-Johnson, potentially paving the way for Lewis Cine.
Since the start of free agency, player movement has been constant. Teams have also been actively trading, and the Philadelphia Eagles just finalized a deal sending CJ Gardner-Johnson to the Houston Texans in exchange for former first-round pick Kenyon Green, per Adam Schefter.
Gardner-Johnson was a starting safety for the Eagles during their Super Bowl campaign last season. With his departure, former Georgia Bulldog Lewis Cine may now have a chance to secure a roster spot.
Cine was a first-round selection by the Minnesota Vikings in the 2022 NFL Draft. However, injuries hindered his progress, and after an unsuccessful stint, the Vikings released him. Cine later joined the Buffalo Bills’ practice squad before the Eagles signed him ahead of the playoffs.
During his time in Athens, Cine was a standout defensive player for the Bulldogs, showing potential as a key contributor at the NFL level. This recent trade could provide him with an opportunity to compete for a spot on the Eagles’ 53-man roster if they choose to retain him.
In 2022, Cine suffered a compound fracture that required immediate surgery, with some fearing it could end his career. After extensive rehab, he played in only seven games for the Vikings before they ultimately decided to part ways with him.
Now, two years post-injury, Cine has a chance to compete for a starting role in the NFL. The Eagles already feature multiple former Bulldogs on their defense, and they could add another one to the mix before the 2025 season begins.