Bills safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson to face Texans in opener

Buffalo Bills safety C.J. GardnerJohnson is preparing for a season opener laden with personal history, as his new team will host the Houston Texans on September 13, 2026. The matchup marks GardnerJohnson's first game against the franchise that released him after just three contests last season, an event he continues to dispute.

GardnerJohnson, speaking to reporters on Thursday, August 6, after returning to practice from a calf strain, expressed his eagerness for the game while dismissing the circumstances of his departure from Houston. "It's a good team. Not saying nothing on the front office or the staff, but the players... they are good," GardnerJohnson said. "All the bulls--- that came out, it was lies, but whatever. I just can't wait to see 'em."

His tenure with the Texans ended abruptly in September 2025 following a loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars that dropped Houston to 0-3. Reports emerged of a sideline confrontation involving teammates that continued into the locker room. Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans released GardnerJohnson, stating it was in the best interest of the team and that the safety was not "jelling or fitting well" in the locker room.