CJ Gardner-Johnson didn’t leave Detroit without making a splash.
The Philadelphia safety called out Lions fans and former teammates in a since-deleted X post, expressing disappointment in the fanbase’s reaction to his departure.
“Lions fans turn around soon! But stay quiet,” Gardner-Johnson posted Wednesday morning.
Six minutes later, he posted again, writing: Immediately (stop) pretending to be my name “fan”. ”
Gardner-Johnson, 26, came to the Lions after a largely disappointing season due to a pectoral injury and was expected to return, but he signed a three-year contract with the Eagles worth up to $33 million.
Despite his stint in Detroit, Gardner-Johnson insisted that he has truly integrated into the city and fan base, unlike any of his former teammates other than Jameson Williams.
He shared the second tweet as a screenshot on his Instagram Story, adding the comment, “I’m sick of Detroit fans.” Let’s set the record straight. Just me @bigsgjamo [Williams’ Instagram handle] The streets of Detroit were behind us. All the other players on the team were scared to go out of town and kick. ”
Gardner-Johnson has particularly donated to MLK High School on Detroit’s east side, attending a football game against Cass Tech last fall and receiving a certificate of appreciation from the school during the game.
He also made a special appearance at Detroit rapper 42 Doug’s sold-out concert at Little Caesars Arena in November.
Williams is known for appearing at Pistons home games and hosted a football skills camp at Chandler Park Academy.
With Detroit, Gardner-Johnson had one interception and 17 total tackles in three games, including two starts.
He also caught a 12-yard interception during the Lions’ three-straight playoff game, which they lost to the 49ers in the NFC Championship.
