UPDATE: C.J. Gardner-Johnson delivered a standout performance with two sacks and a forced fumble in the Chicago Bears’ thrilling 24-20 comeback victory against the New York Giants at Soldier Field on November 9, 2025.
This game marks a remarkable turnaround for Gardner-Johnson, who just two weeks ago was without a team, labeled a locker room problem. His impact was undeniable as he helped the Bears secure their sixth win in seven games.
Gardner-Johnson’s pivotal moment came in the third quarter when he knocked the ball loose from Giants quarterback Jaxson Dart. Cornerback Nahshon Wright recovered it, leading to a crucial drive that culminated in a 22-yard field goal by Cairo Santos, narrowing the score to 17-10. Gardner-Johnson expressed his gratitude, stating, “It’s just a blessing to be here.”
The Bears’ defense has been under strain, missing key players like cornerback Jaylon Johnson and nickel corner Kyler Gordon. Gardner-Johnson’s signing on October 29 has paid off tremendously. In just his second game with the Bears, he has already made his mark, including a sack last week against the Cincinnati Bengals.
Head coach Ben Johnson praised Gardner-Johnson’s journey, saying, “You get football taken away from you… now he’s here with a bunch of guys rooting for him.” His swagger and playmaking skills are rapidly resonating with the team. Gardner-Johnson’s performance against the Giants included another sack in the first quarter and a critical play that led to Dart’s exit from the game for concussion evaluation.
“I got tired of him running the ball,” Gardner-Johnson remarked, highlighting his determination to make impactful plays. His aggressive defense was pivotal as he brought Dart down for an 11-yard loss in the fourth quarter, contributing to the Bears’ strong finish.
Despite the Bears’ defensive struggles, including allowing Dart to rush for 66 yards and two touchdowns, their resilience shone through. This victory is a testament to the team’s ability to rally in challenging moments, underscoring the belief and camaraderie building within the squad.
As the Bears look ahead, fans are eager to see how Gardner-Johnson continues to elevate the defense, especially as they navigate the rest of the season without key starters. His emergence as a vital player could be a game-changer for the Bears moving forward.
The Bears now prepare for their next challenge, with hopes high that Gardner-Johnson will continue to shine. His journey from NFL outcast to game-winner is a story that has captured the hearts of Bears fans everywhere.