The Chicago Bears were focused solely on winning the game on Sunday against the Cleveland Browns. It was the only thing that mattered. However, some inside the locker room probably took notice of the media buzz around Cleveland’s rookie quarterback, Shedeur Sanders. He was coming off a solid showing last week, where he put up 364 yards and three touchdowns on the Tennessee Titans. Many seemed to think this was the first sign he was about to ascend. The Bears defense seemed to take that personally. None more so than CJ Gardner-Johnson.
The veteran defensive back was smarting after his rough game last week in Green Bay. He arrived with a purpose on a frigid afternoon at Soldier Field. Chicago overwhelmed Sanders all day, sacking him five times and collecting three interceptions. Gardner-Johnson got the third one, pretty much putting the game away in the 4th quarter. Cleveland managed just three points after putting up 29 last week. Gardner-Johnson was asked about Sanders after the game. True to his nature, he didn’t hold back.
“It’s about time he ran into some problems. He’s a great young player. They’re a great young group that’s playing hard, physical. He’s just going against a lot of vets that have something to play for.
“Sometimes you gotta teach a rookie how to stay in a rookie’s place.”
CJ Gardner-Johnson remains a welcome addition in Chicago.
People talk about his attitude problems that resulted in quick exits from Philadelphia, Detroit, and Houston. The reality is that certain teams need players like him. His trash-talking ability and swagger can be infectious in a locker room while constantly unnerving opponents. The Bears didn’t have a player like that. Not someone with his pedigree for winning. It was good fortune that he was even available during the season. Since arriving a few weeks ago, he’s been a superb addition to their secondary.
He’s right about Sanders. The rookie from Colorado has talent. There are flashes of him being able to throw some absolute darts. Unfortunately, this is accompanied by erratic tendencies that can lead to poor decisions. Dennis Allen, who is one of the most devious defensive coordinators in the NFL, took full advantage of that. CJ Gardner-Johnson was merely one of the beneficiaries. His versatility and infectious energy could serve the Bears very well in their postseason push.
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