C.J. Gardner-Johnson already looking to switch numbers following John Metchie trade
The newest member of the Houston Texans' secondary reacted to the news of Metchie's trade to the Philadelphia Eagles by making sure that people weren't investing in his No. 23 jersey since it's clear he'll be making a switch in the coming days.
Gardner-Johnson posted on X an emoji of an 8-ball, which is supposed to a sign that he'll change to number back to No. 8, which Metchie wore for three seasons after donning the jersey at the University of Alabama.
And yes, Gardner-Johnson is making the switch. In his first press conference with the Texans, the do-it-all defensive back tried to figure out a way to get his No. 8 jersey then.
A second-round pick out of Alabama, Metchie reunites with 2020 national championship teammate DeVonta Smith and should compete for reps in the slot. He missed his entire rookie season while battling leukemia after the Texans selected him in a trade-up following his breakout season with the Crimson Tide in 2021.
Entering a contract year, Metchie's totaled 40 career receptions for 412 yards and a touchdown in 29 games. This preseason, he was leading all Texans receivers with six catches for 53 yards.
As for newcomer Harrison Bryant, the former John Mackey Award winner has totaled 98 career receptions for 877 yards and 10 touchdowns between his time with the Cleveland Browns and Las Vegas Raiders. He signed a one-year contract this offseason with the Eagles and was expected to compete for the No. 3 tight end role, which should be the same for him in Houston now with Brevin Jordan out for the season with a lower-body injury.
Gardner-Johnson, who is currently dealing with a knee injury suffered last week at The Greenbrier, likely won't debut the No. 8 jersey until Week 2 or 3 in the regular season.
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