Eagles C.J. Gardner-Johnson returns with new mindset, apology to fans NBC Sports Philadelphia [Video]

C.J. Gardner-Johnson whistled as he strolled his way to the front of the NovaCare Complex auditorium on Friday afternoon.

You could almost feel his energy.

“Guess who’s back … back again,” the enigmatic safety began to sing as he then got in front of the microphone and sat down. “Shady’s back …”

As he was welcomed back, Gardner-Johnson flashed a smile and a thumbs up and his re-introductory press conference was underway.

How does it feel to be back?

“Like I never left,” he said. “I feel great.”

Not only is Gardner-Johnson back after a year away but he’s back with the Eagles on a new three-year deal that’s reportedly worth up to $33 million. And he’s back with some added perspective and maturity too.

The truth is, Gardner-Johnson never really wanted to leave. But after the 2022 season ended, there was some drama and hurt feelings between his camp and the Eagles and he ended up in Detroit on a one-year deal.

And a lot changed in a year to get …