The Pittsburgh Steelers are set to bolster their thin cornerback rotation with the addition of C.J. Henderson to the active roster. After being elevated from the practice squad on October 22, Henderson is expected to be ready for any role the Steelers assign him as they prepare for their Week 8 matchup against the New York Giants.
While it’s unclear what Henderson’s exact role will be, the former first-round pick has made it known that he’s eager to contribute in whatever capacity the team needs. “I am looking forward to it,” Henderson told reporters via The Pittsburgh Tribune-Review. “Whatever they need me to do, I am looking forward to it and will show them the best that I can.”
Henderson, originally drafted ninth overall by the Jacksonville Jaguars in the 2020 NFL Draft, has played in 49 NFL games between the Jaguars and Carolina Panthers. Despite high expectations, Henderson’s career has seen him move from team to team, with stints in Jacksonville, Carolina, and most recently, training camp with the Houston Texans before joining the Steelers’ practice squad in late September.
His versatility is one of the traits that make him a valuable addition for Pittsburgh. Though he’s primarily been an outside cornerback, Henderson has experience across various positions in the secondary, including slot cornerback, safety, and special teams. As the Steelers deal with depth issues at cornerback, his ability to play multiple roles could be crucial.
The Steelers’ cornerback group has been stretched thin recently, particularly after starter Donte Jackson left Week 7’s game with a shoulder injury. That left Pittsburgh with just three available cornerbacks for the remainder of the game. Although head coach Mike Tomlin described Jackson’s injury as “minor” and expects him to return against the Giants, the Steelers are making sure they have reinforcements.
Even if Jackson is able to play, Henderson’s presence could provide crucial depth. His experience on special teams also gives the Steelers additional options in punt and kickoff coverage, roles he fulfilled during his time with the Panthers.
In his NFL career, Henderson has accumulated 172 tackles, 16 pass defenses, and three interceptions. As the Steelers gear up for the second half of the season, Henderson’s versatility and readiness to step in wherever needed make him a key addition to Pittsburgh’s defense.
