The Detroit Lions entered the offseason hoping to revamp their secondary, and they’ve certainly done a great job of that in the first week of free agency.
After already signing cornerbacks Cameron Sutton and Emmanuel Moseley, the Lions made a big move on Sunday with the addition of free-agent safety Chauncey “C.J.” Gardner-Johnson.
Detroit has signed Gardner-Johnson to a one-year deal worth up to $8 million, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter on Sunday night.
Lions are giving him a one-year deal worth up to $8 million, per source. https://t.co/tkAOtdJOV3
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 20, 2023
Gardner-Johnson, 25, was tied for the NFL lead in interceptions in 2022 with six. And that was while playing just 12 regular-season games. He was placed on the injured reserve on Dec. 13 after suffering a lacerated kidney. He returned to play in the Eagles’ three postseason games, including the Super Bowl.
After playing his first three seasons with the New Orleans Saints, Gardner-Johnson joined the Eagles in 2022 and was a key part of the NFC champion squad.
Gardner-Johnson offers versatility as a defensive back, with the ability to play safety and the nickel/slot corner.
It’s early in the offseason, and the Lions have already added Gardner-Johnson, Sutton, Moseley, running back David Montgomery, and guard Graham Glasnow. Detroit also has the No. 6, 18, 48, and 55 picks in the 2023 NFL Draft.
#Lions offseason so far:
– Signed S Chauncey Gardner-Johnson
– Signed RB David Montgomery
– Signed CB Cameron Sutton
– Signed CB Emmanuel Moseley
– Signed G Graham Glasgow
– Own picks 6, 18, 48 and 55 in the Draft.
Detroit is loading up. pic.twitter.com/kDJQnZN0Kw
— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) March 20, 2023
The Lions won nine games in 2022, and they’re likely to enter the 2023 season as the clear NFC North favorites.
