Gardner-Johnson heading back to Philadelphia after one season with Lions

C.J. Gardner-Johnson's one year in Detroit turned out to be a pitstop in a loop that is taking him back to Philadelphia. The veteran defensive back has agreed to rejoin the Eagles his agents announced via Twitter on Tuesday evening. ESPN is reporting it's a three-year deal worth up to $33 million.

The Eagles initially acquired Gardner-Johnson in a trade from the New Orleans Saints ahead of the 2022 season. He led the league with six interceptions that season, playing a critical role in the franchise's run to the Super Bowl.

But during the following offseason, Gardner-Johnson struggled to find an offer he liked as a free agent. He opted for a one-year deal in Detroit to reaffirm his value. On the surface, the move didn't go as intended when he suffered a torn pectoral muscle in Week 2 that sidelined him until the season finale.

Still, potential employers must have been impressed by his drive to beat his recovery timetable, especially when he could have simply remained sidelined and preserved his health ahead of another trip through free agency.

More:For second straight day, Lions adding cornerback in free agency

While Gardner-Johnson was out of action, Ifeatu Melifonwu was elevated to a starting role and emerged as a standout performer. That reduced Detroit's need to re-sign the veteran, particularly when Gardner-Johnson made it clear he wasn't keen being part of a defensive rotation.

In three regular season appearances for the Lions, Gardner-Johnson recorded 17 tackles, three pass defenses and an interception. He chipped in another 12 tackles and an interception in a trio of postseason contests.

jdrogers@detroitnews.com

@Justin_Rogers