Could C.J. Gardner-Johnson's versatile playmaking and bargain contract elevate Seattle's already elite defense to Super Bowl-conquering heights once again?
The Seattle Seahawks had one of the best defenses in the entire NFL this season, and that was one of the things that led them all the way to the Super Bowl and eventually helped them hoist the Vince Lombardi Trophy.
But what if their already scary defense was even scarier?
In a recent article by Ben Strauss of ClutchPoints, he gives three free agents who he thinks the reigning Super Bowl champions should go after this offseason. And one of the players he mentions is Chicago Bears safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson.
"Adding Gardner-Johnson would give the Seahawks a versatile defender who can line up in the slot or play strong safety," Strauss writes. "One benefit would be allowing Nick Emmanwori to play wherever Macdonald wants him. Gardner-Johnson is only valued at $2.32 million per season by Spotrac, which makes him a real bargain."
The downside? CGJ is a controversial figure ... and his big mouth has caused him some problems.
But ... He has been one of the better safeties in the NFL since the New Orleans Saints drafted him in the fourth round of the 2019 NFL Draft. He plays with a lot of emotion, and he often does so very well.
Gardner-Johnson finished the 2025 season with 66 total tackles, which is the second-highest total so far in his career. He was also able to show his versatility by getting three sacks, as well as a pair of interceptions.
The Seahawks' starting strong safety this season was Coby Bryant, who had a very solid season and playoffs. However, they could be losing him to free agency if he decides to leave.
Not only would the 28-year-old safety be a great talent to add just in case Bryant leaves to join another team, but Gardner-Johnson could also fit what the Seahawks' head coach is wanting to do on the defensive side of the ball.
"Macdonald loves to run “big nickel” sets on defense which use three safeties at the same time," Strauss writes. "That makes potential losing Coby Bryant to free agency potentially a huge deal for Seattle's defense."
Nobody would bat an eye if Seattle keeps mostly the same roster next season, but adding a guy like Gardner-Johnson could be something for the team to at least consider.