Space Coast Sports Hall of Famer CJ Gardner-Johnson Gears Up for Eagles vs Packers Playoff Game Today
By Space Coast Daily // January 12, 2025
Kickoff set for 4:30 p.m., airing live on FOX
2020 SPACE COAST SPORTS HALL OF FAME: High Impact New Orleans Saints Player Chauncey Gardner-Johnson from Cocoa Tigers Football Recognized as Among Best Young Players in NFL. (Video aired in 2020.)
BREVARD COUNTY, FLORIDA – Chauncey Gardner-Johnson’s journey from the fields of Cocoa, Florida, to the bright lights of the NFL playoffs continues as he prepares to take the field as the starting safety for the Philadelphia Eagles in a critical postseason showdown against the Green Bay Packers.
From Cocoa Tiger to NFL Playmaker
Gardner-Johnson’s rise to stardom began at Cocoa High School, where he excelled as a two-way player. As a senior, he helped lead the Tigers to a state semifinal appearance, earning the title of 2015 Space Coast Daily – Friday Night Locker Room Prep Football Player of the Year. Known for his shutdown ability on defense, he recorded 31 solo tackles, four sacks, and two interceptions that season, while also racking up nearly 1,000 all-purpose yards and 11 touchdowns on offense.
His standout high school career earned him national recognition, with ESPN ranking him No. 84 on their Top 300 list and 247Sports naming him the No. 4 player in Florida.

Dominating at Florida
Gardner-Johnson continued his trajectory at the University of Florida, where he quickly became a defensive anchor for the Gators. In his freshman year, he was named MVP of the 2017 Outback Bowl after recording two interceptions, including a pick-six. Over his collegiate career, he totaled 161 tackles, nine interceptions, and 12 tackles-for-loss before declaring for the 2019 NFL Draft.
NFL Journey and Impact
Drafted by the New Orleans Saints in the fourth round, Gardner-Johnson wasted no time making an impact. His impressive rookie season earned him a spot on the Pro Football Writers Association All-Rookie Team. Now a key player for the Eagles, Gardner-Johnson has solidified himself as one of the league’s top young safeties, combining versatility, physicality, and a knack for making big plays.
Playoff Spotlight: Eagles vs. Packers
As the Eagles prepare to face the Green Bay Packers in the playoffs, Gardner-Johnson will play a critical role in containing quarterback Jordan Love and the Packers’ offense. Known for his ability to disrupt passing lanes and deliver hard hits, he’ll be tasked with neutralizing Green Bay’s top receiving threats and providing leadership in the secondary.
The Eagles boast one of the NFL’s most well-rounded defenses, and Gardner-Johnson’s presence in the backfield is a key reason why. His ability to read offenses and make game-changing plays will be pivotal as Philadelphia looks to advance deeper into the postseason.
Honoring His Roots
Gardner-Johnson’s playoff journey is a testament to his work ethic and the support of those who shaped his path. Reflecting on his roots, he often credits his family, youth coaches Alex Goins and James Folston, and former Cocoa Tigers head coach John Wilkinson for their guidance and encouragement.
Ready for the Big Stage
At 6 feet tall and 208 pounds, Gardner-Johnson combines physicality with instinct, making him a dangerous playmaker for the Eagles. As he takes the field against the Packers, he carries with him the lessons and determination forged in Cocoa and Gainesville.
Tune in to see Gardner-Johnson and the Eagles face the Packers in this high-stakes playoff matchup. Kickoff is set for 4:30 p.m., airing live on FOX.