Gardner-Johnson has a reputation for being a bit of a dirty player. In fact, Gardner-Johnson was voted the biggest trash-talker in the NFL in a poll conducted by The Athletic in 2023, and he won the “award” again the following year when it was expanded and renamed Most Annoying Player in the NFL. He’s also famous for getting under opposing player’s skin and pushing the line when it comes to what’s acceptable after the whistle.
So it should come as little surprise that Gardner-Johnson found himself in hot water during Sunday’s game against the Las Vegas Raiders after video replay showed him appearing to spit on a Raiders player, leading to an ejection. After the game, Gardner-Johnson didn’t own up to his actions when he was asked point-blank if he spit on an opposing player, instead telling reporters he needs to be better about not getting himself in trouble. It was competitive, like I said, heat of the moment.
Everybody saw what was going on. There wasn’t nothing egregious against nobody, we just competing in a game, a call was made, a flag was (thrown), they’re chirping, and I guess just being a competitor.” As social media was ripping into Gardner-Johnson for his behavior, San Francisco 49ers fullback Kyle Juszczyk threw a little fuel on the fire. The Pro Bowler tweeted that CJGJ actually did the same thing to him last season while he was a member of the Chicago Bears.
There was another spitting incident in the NFL last season. Philadelphia Eagles defensive tackle Jalen Carter was ejected on the first play of the game in the season opener after spitting on Cowboys QB Dak Prescott. Carter was given a one-game suspension (the NFL counted Week 1 as his suspension since he played just one snap) and fined $57,222.
A similar punishment is likely heading Gardner-Johnson’s way.
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