Eagles CB’s Profane Remark About the Commanders Seems Right — But Not Quite as He Intended

Was His Action Right or Wrong?

When Philadelphia Eagles cornerback CJ Gardner-Johnson strode into the locker room after a decisive victory against the Washington Commanders, his emotions were on full display. With his right hand mimicking a talking motion, he shouted, “Washington — respect yourselves! But you know those guys are running through us.”

Eagles’ Victory Bolsters Their Standings

The Eagles secured a 26-18 win, solidifying their position in the playoff race with an impressive 8-2 record. This victory put them ahead of the Commanders, who now sit at 7-4, while also creating distance from the Dallas Cowboys and New York Giants. Gardner-Johnson, a key member of the NFC Champion Eagles team in 2022, didn’t just express disdain for the Commanders. His comments reflected a deeper desire for respect for his own team. With six consecutive wins, the Eagles are thriving under first-year coordinators Kellen Moore (offense) and Vic Fangio (defense).

Growing Respect for the Commanders

Despite his bold statements, Gardner-Johnson acknowledged the strides made by the Commanders, particularly under new ownership led by Josh Harris and head coach Dan Quinn. The Eagles’ defense showcased their dominance by holding the Commanders to just 3 of 12 on third downs throughout the game. Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels completed 22 of 32 passes for 191 yards, but the Eagles’ defense effectively limited his impact. Gardner-Johnson himself made a significant contribution with three tackles and four pass breakups.

Recognizing the League’s Momentum

After the game, Gardner-Johnson emphasized the Eagles’ legacy in the league. “We’ve been doing this for years,” he declared. “We respect a great team, but we know what’s at stake. We’ve won this division a few times over the past years.” His remarks served as a reminder of the competitive nature of the NFC East, where no team has successfully defended its title since the Eagles did it in 2003-2004. With the Cowboys struggling at 3-6 and facing a tough road ahead without quarterback Dak Prescott, the dynamics of the division continue to shift.

Eagles’ Championship Aspirations and Desire for Dominance

The Eagles boast not only a talented offensive lineup, featuring stars like Jalen Hurts and AJ Brown, but also an aggressive approach to bolstering their defense through the draft and free agency. Their ability to contain top performers, such as Washington’s Terry McLaurin, highlights their defensive prowess. As head coach Nick Sirianni aptly stated, “This is a street fight, not about who’s stronger, but who can endure longer.” The Eagles appear primed for a championship run if they maintain their current momentum.

CJ Gardner-Johnson’s controversial remarks underscore the Eagles’ confidence and determination in a fiercely competitive division. With a strong record and a clear vision of success, the Eagles are not merely aiming for a playoff berth; they are on a mission to claim another championship title.