Chicago Bears head coach Ben Johnson made two bold moves on Wednesday, October 29. First, he signed free agent safety CJ Gardner-Johnson. Second, he made CJ the slot corner ahead of their Week 9 match against the Cincinnati Bengals. Speaking about the signing, the head coach had noted:

“We have an opportunity, and he was available. He’s a good football player… It’s a good fit.”

Notably, this marks the third team Gardner-Johnson has joined this season, but only the second one he’ll be suiting up for. His first stint with the Houston Texans saw him log 11 solo tackles through just three games. But the Texans ended up releasing him, and he joined the Baltimore Ravens’ practice squad. After hitting free agency again, he now gets another proper shot at making a splash. And he brings a certain familiarity and a lot of talent to the table as well.

Gardner-Johnson had logged six picks, along with forcing seven turnovers, last season with the Philadelphia Eagles, to add to their Super Bowl run. He’s also played for several years under Bears defensive coordinator Dennis Allen during their time with the New Orleans Saints. This reunion is more than a coincidence. Allen’s aggressive defense fits Gardner-Johnson’s chaotic playmaking style perfectly. And the timing of this addition couldn’t be more perfect.

The Bears have been leading the league with 16 takeaways so far, but Week 8 had none. Their defense also gave up 355 yards against Baltimore. With CJ’s tested turnover caliber, that formula will fit like a T with the Bears.

Meanwhile, the Bears’ secondary is so battered it’s hard to recognize. CJ Gardner-Johnson’s addition might just give them a new identity while the roster reels from injuries.

Injury concerns for Ben Johnson

Slot corner Kyler Gordon went down with a groin and calf injury in their Week 8 loss to the Ravens. It’s his place that Gardner-Johnson will take over now. But that’s just one position that’s shored up.

Fellow cornerback Jaylon Johnson is indefinitely out with a re-aggravated groin injury. Tyrique Stevenson had missed Week 8 after suffering a shoulder injury in Week 7; he’s still listed as questionable. The depth at the cornerback position? Stretched paper-thin.

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On the other hand, CJ Gardner-Johnson himself hasn’t been quite injury-free. But his potential to turn Chicago’s secondary into a turnover machine again is well worth the risk. He also has the added advantage of having worked with Ben Johnson when he was the offensive coordinator with the New Orleans Saints.

The Bears are betting on familiarity and tested talent ahead of their Week 9 clash with the Cincinnati Bengals. The big question now: Can Gardner-Johnson help an injury-stricken secondary and find a permanent home for himself in Chicago this season?