PHILADELPHIA -- Eagles defensive back C.J. Gardner-Johnson strolled to the podium at the NovaCare practice facility Friday singing, "Guess who's back, back again?"
C.J.'s back -- on a three-year deal worth a maximum of $33 million.
He starred for Philly in 2022, tying for a league-leading six interceptions despite missing five games with a lacerated kidney. His playmaking ability and swagger were key for a team that nearly toppled Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs in Super Bowl LVII.
But Gardner-Johnson exited in free agency last offseason after he and the Eagles failed to see eye-to-eye during contract negotiations, and he instead ended up with the Detroit Lions.
He took some parting shots on his way out the door. During his introductory news conference in Detroit, Gardner-Johnson said the Lions' roster was "a little better" than the Eagles' Super Bowl squad. Later that offseason, he called Philadelphia fans "f---ing obnoxious," adding, "I f---ing can't stand the f---ers."
"I do owe the fans of Philly an apology," he wrote on social media after agreeing to sign for a second time with the Eagles. "Regardless this is an amazing place and we had some memories together! Let's go get us one #FlyEaglesFly."
He talked more about those comments toward the fans Friday.
"I thought it was a compliment, to be honest with you," he said with a smile. "All jokes aside, I was just in my feelings. You want to be somewhere so bad to the point where you can't control certain things. Certain things were said but there was no meaning to it. I'm back, so I guess we're all happy. Family reunion."
The Eagles' secondary struggled in his absence in 2023, finishing second-to-last in passing yards and passing touchdowns allowed.
Gardner-Johnson declined to comment on the defense's downturn, saying he was more focused on the Lions and self-improvement during his time away. He believes he has matured since his last stint in Philadelphia.
"I want to make a positive impact, on and off the field," he said.
Gardner-Johnson wore No. 23 his first time around but will now don No. 8 in homage to his favorite athlete, local product Kobe Bryant.
"Tapping into a different mentality is something that would be great to see this year. I'm on my Kobe mode right now," he said. "I'm coming out with the Mamba."