From spitting ejection to out of a job: Bills cut ties with C.J. Gardner-Johnson

The Buffalo Bills have moved on from the former Super Bowl champion following his suspension for spitting at a Las Vegas Raiders opponent, but questions remain over how the team will replace him as they strengthen their defensive backfield. The safety has been released after receiving a one-game suspension for an incident involving Brock Bowers and Tyler Linderbaum , as the 28-year-old was ejected shortly before halftime of the Week 6 matchup.

Television footage appeared to show him spitting in Bowers ' direction following an exchange between the players, prompting an immediate reaction from the Raiders and he was penalized for unsportsmanlike conduct. Gardner-Johnson was escorted off the field with 15 seconds remaining in the first half, leaving his teammates to finish the contest without him but Buffalo eventually secured a 33-30 victory to improve to 5-1. Yet the incident overshadowed an important divisional performance and the safety acknowledged his mistake when speaking to reporters, although he did not explicitly confirm or deny spitting at Bowers . "I let my emotions get above me and I hurt my team. I got to do better and control my emotions," Gardner-Johnson said as he also revealed that he had apologized to his teammates after head coach Joe Brady made clear that he owed the team an explanation. Despite Brady initially indicating that Buffalo had no intention of releasing the defensive back, the organization announced his departure on November 3 with NFL Network's Cameron Wolfe subsequently reported that inconsistent performances, rather than the suspension alone, were a significant factor behind the decision.

Bills could target major trade to replace Gardner-Johnson

Gardner-Johnson 's departure has created another vacancy in Buffalo 's secondary, with Damar Hamlin expected to take on a starting role but The Athletic's Joe Buscaglia believes the Bills could look beyond their existing roster as they attempt to strengthen their Super Bowl chances. Buffalo have already demonstrated that they can compete with the strongest teams, particularly with quarterback Josh Allen and running back James Cook leading an explosive offense. And Buscaglia believes the organization should take advantage of its current championship window as they look to push towards the AFC Championship Game and beyond. "The Bills have one of the league's best offenses,” Buscaglia said. “Led by quarterback Josh Allen and running back James Cook. Allen is 30, giving them a clear window to push for a title in 2026. If there's one thing that would hold them back from accomplishing those goals, it's the struggles of their back seven. “With the middle of their field (inside linebacker, nickel corner and safety) recently being the issue. They could also use another piece to improve the depth of their defensive front." One potential solution could be Arizona Cardinals safety Budda Baker , who has emerged as a possible trade target ahead of the deadline as the struggling NFC West side could be tempted to sell the six-time Pro Bowler with the 2027 NFL Draft in mind. Buffalo also have an internal option in Tre'Davious White , who recently rejoined the team's practice squad as the experienced cornerback could provide additional depth while helping the younger backs, Maxwell Hairston and Davison Igbinosun develop.