Eagles defensive back C.J. Gardner-Johnson expressed skepticism about the New Orleans Saints’ Super Bowl potential following Philadelphia’s 15-12 victory on Sunday. In a postgame celebration, he emphatically declared in the locker room, “They ain’t no contenders. They’re pretenders,” referencing quarterback Derek Carr.
Entering Week 3, the Saints were viewed as one of the NFL’s hottest teams, having scored 91 points in their first two games to start the season at 2-0. However, the Eagles’ defense stifled the Saints, allowing only 219 total yards and 12 first downs during the game.
Despite their defensive efforts, the Eagles struggled with offensive consistency for much of the matchup. Key plays by running back Saquon Barkley and tight end Dallas Goedert ultimately secured a narrow victory, improving Philadelphia’s record to 2-1.
Gardner-Johnson, who took to social media to critique Saints players, concluded Week 3 with eight tackles and a pass breakup. The 26-year-old recently returned to Philadelphia after playing his first three NFL seasons with the Saints before being traded to the Eagles in 2022. He reflected on his past with the Saints, stating, “They got rid of me, I ain’t get rid of them. It’s still in me.”
