C.J. Gardner-Johnson Parents

C.J. Gardner-Johnson is an American football safety for the Philadelphia Eagles in the NFL. Born on December 20, 1997, in Cocoa, Florida, Gardner-Johnson played collegiate football at the University of Florida. He quickly made an impact as a freshman, playing in all 14 games and earning MVP honors in the 2017 Outback Bowl.

During his time in college, he caught the attention of NFL scouts leading to his selection by the New Orleans Saints in the fourth round of the 2019 NFL Draft. Throughout his NFL career, Johnson has played with multiple teams including the Philadelphia Eagles, Detroit Lions, and now again with the Philadelphia Eagles. As of February 2025, Gardner-Johnson has tallied 304 total tackles, 18 interceptions and four sacks in his six-year NFL career (via ESPN).

Who are the parents of C.J. Gardner-Johnson?

CJ Gardner-Johnson is the son of Del and his stepfather is Brian Johnson. His family background plays a significant role in his life and career. He was born to Chauncey Gardner Sr., his biological father, but was raised by his stepfather Brian Johnson and his mother Del Johnson in Cocoa, Florida.

CJ changed his name from Chauncey Gardner Jr. to ‘Chauncey Gardner-Johnson’ in honor of his stepfather according to Spectrum News. CJ said, "That's my stepdad, but that's like my dad to me. He's been there since I was three."

Brian Johnson, touched by this gesture, shared his emotional reaction: "I was honored. Like I'm in tears now; I was in tears then." Del Johnson, the mother of CJ expressed her gratitude for Brian Johnson's support: "To me, I hope Brian really, really sees that we really appreciate him."

C.J. Gardner-Johnson step-father

C.J. Gardner-Johnson’s stepfather is Brian Johnson. “He used to tell me he was going to play in the NFL. I told him he was crazy,” Brian added in an interview with Spectrum News13. CJ also honors his stepfather and expresses his thankfulness to him saying, “This guy has been there, taught me everything I know, without him I probably wouldn’t be playing football right now.”

C.J. Gardner-Johnson mother

Delatron Johnson is the mother of CJ Gardner-Johnson. Growing up, Dela faced challenges due to her mother being addicted to crack cocaine, which impacted her significantly. Her addiction led to a chaotic and dangerous household, where Dela Johnson and her younger sister were often left to fend for themselves, as per her interview with Florida Today.

However, Dela Johnson chose to transform her life for the better. In her 2014 book, Fighting to Win, she recounts her struggles, saying, “All I knew was to hit. That’s why I used to fight all the time.”

The birth of her son Chauncey Gardner Jr. aka CJ Gardner-Johnson, was a crucial moment in her life. It was the presence of her child that helped her keep suicidal thoughts at bay she added, as per Florida Today. Dela Johnson lives in Cocoa, Florida, and she has dedicated her life to her kids and giving back to her community as a volunteer at home for foster children with Friends of Children and Families.