What’s Next for the Texans at Safety After C.J. Gardner-Johnson’s Injury?

Texans fans held their breath yesterday when C.J. Gardner-Johnson went down with a non-contact knee injury at training camp. The moment was somber, with the entire team huddling around him and showing support as he was carted off. Head coach DeMeco Ryans, visibly emotional, reflected the weight of the situation.

Initially, reports indicated that Gardner-Johnson had suffered a torn ACL. But later updates suggested there was still hope, as additional testing was pending and the injury might not be as severe as feared. While that leaves the door open for a more promising outcome, the Texans must begin evaluating how to handle his absence—whether it’s short-term or long-term.

And as if the emotional rollercoaster of Gardner-Johnson’s injury and medical updates weren’t enough, the Texans had a truly bizarre and unfortunate day all around. News broke shortly after the injury that Jimmie Ward had been arrested again, adding another layer of uncertainty to the safety room. Then, to top it off, Kenyon Green—the offensive lineman traded to the Eagles in exchange for Gardner-Johnson earlier this offseason—suffered a wrist injury in a preseason game, bringing everything full circle in the most chaotic way imaginable.

Jimmie Ward’s Complicated Availability

To make matters more complex, the same day as Gardner-Johnson’s injury, news broke that fellow veteran safety Jimmie Ward had been arrested again. However, it’s important to provide context:

Ward’s arrest stemmed from the same domestic violence case earlier this offseason. He was reportedly sanctioned for testing positive for alcohol, which violated the terms of his pre-trial release. According to reports, there were no new charges or incidents, and Ward allegedly wasn’t aware that consuming alcohol would violate those conditions. He spent one night in jail as a result—a response typical of Montgomery County, which is known for stricter enforcement than other jurisdictions.

While not taking sides, it’s a reminder to reserve judgment until the legal process plays out. That said, Ward remains unavailable, not just because of the legal matter, but also because he’s on the PUP (Physically Unable to Perform) list with a foot injury sustained late last season against the Chiefs.

Had Ward been healthy and cleared, he likely would’ve been the natural fit to replace Gardner-Johnson at strong safety. He’s played that role in DeMeco Ryans’ system and brings the veteran experience and physicality the position requires.

Understanding the Strong Safety Role in This Defense

Gardner-Johnson had been lining up at strong safety, a role that requires a player to rotate down into the box, fill gaps in the run game, and cover tight ends—not necessarily play deep as a free safety. That’s where rookie Calen Bullock fits best, as a rangy centerfielder.

The strong safety spot, however, is more about instincts, toughness, and reliability—a perfect fit for someone like Ward. Without him available, the Texans must look elsewhere.

Immediate Option: M.J. Stewart

The first man up appears to be veteran M.J. Stewart, who took first-team reps in Gardner-Johnson’s absence. Stewart has been with the Texans since 2022, giving him two and a half years in the system and a level of trust with Ryans and the defensive staff. He’s not flashy, but he’s steady and experienced—a critical factor at a position that needs to be a stabilizer.

Eric Murray, who previously filled this role behind Ward, is no longer on the roster after signing with the Jaguars in free agency.

Depth Options: Jaylen Reed and Others

Rookie Jaylen Reed, a sixth-round pick out of Penn State, had been turning heads early in camp with multiple interceptions and solid play. However, he suffered an ankle injury and is expected to miss around three weeks. While he shows promise, it’s a big ask to expect a rookie with limited time in the system to take over a complex and physical role like strong safety.

Another name on the roster is Jalen Pitre, but moving him to safety likely wouldn’t make sense. Pitre has found a home in the “star” role in Ryans’ 4-2-5 base defense, where he plays essentially as a SAM linebacker and roams near the line of scrimmage. His ability to blitz, support the run, and cover underneath routes is a huge asset—and disrupting that would likely weaken the overall structure of the defense.

If the Texans did move Pitre, they’d have to find a new star. They could look to versatile options like Myles Bryant, who played nickel in the playoffs and held his own, or rookies like Kamari Lassiter and Jaylin Smith, who have shown positional flexibility in camp.

External Free Agent Options

If Stewart doesn’t hold up—or if the team wants to add more proven depth—the free-agent market offers some intriguing names:

• Justin Simmons 

• Marcus Williams

• Jordan Poyer

• Jordan Whitehead

• Vonn Bell

  
  

While some are more natural free safeties, all have the experience and versatility Ryans could work with.

There are also a couple of former 49ers with ties to Ryans, such as Tashaun Gipson and George Odum, who could be considered if the Texans want scheme familiarity.

One name to keep an eye on: Jalen Mills, who the Texans worked out recently—before Gardner-Johnson’s injury. That interest may now resurface.

Final Thoughts

Coming into training camp, Houston’s secondary was widely regarded as one of the best in the NFL—and arguably the best in the league from my perspective. The loss of Gardner-Johnson is a major blow, both in terms of talent and leadership. But the unit still has the depth and flexibility to remain elite.

If the Texans stay healthy and get solid contributions from veterans like M.J. Stewart while waiting on reinforcements—whether it’s Ward returning, Reed recovering, or a potential free agent signing—this defense can still be a top 3 to top 5 secondary in the NFL.