Gardner-Johnson signs with Bears added to active roster

Chauncey Gardner-Johnson, the 27-year-old safety who helped the Philadelphia Eagles win Super Bowl LIX, has signed with the Chicago Bears and been added to their active roster, his agents said Wednesday. The move reunites Gardner-Johnson with defensive coordinator Dennis Allen and comes as the Bears address multiple injuries in their secondary.

Gardner-Johnson’s 2025 season has included several short stops. Shortly after the Super Bowl, he was traded from Philadelphia to the Houston Texans in March. The Texans released him after three games in late September. He then joined the Baltimore Ravens practice squad in October but was released within a week. The Bears signed him following a visit Tuesday, according to his agents.

A versatile defender who can play nickel safety, blitz and match up against tight ends and slot receivers, Gardner-Johnson recorded six interceptions and started 16 games for the Eagles last season. Across seven NFL seasons he has 18 career interceptions and has been credited with numerous passes defended and tackles, figures that teams view as indicative of his playmaking ability.

Chicago’s secondary has been beset by injuries this season. The team currently...