Pittsburgh Steelers sign CB C.J. Henderson to practice squad

The Pittsburgh Steelers (3-0) announced Wednesday they have signed cornerback C.J. Henderson to their practice squad.

Henderson, 25, joins the Steelers after spending the previous three seasons with the Carolina Panthers (1-2). The former Florida standout was originally a first-round selection (ninth overall) in the 2020 NFL Draft by the Jacksonville Jaguars (0-3). Jacksonville traded him to Carolina early in the 2021 season.

Henderson has suited up in 49 games (32 starts), compiling 172 tackles (139 solo), 16 passes defensed, three interceptions and two forced fumbles. He signed with the Houston Texans (2-1) back in March but was released in late August.

Steelers riding high after 3-0 start

The Steelers’ defense has been dominant through three games this season, allowing a league-low 8.7 points per game and just 229.7 yards per game. Next on the schedule is a Week 4 road matchup with the Indianapolis Colts (1-2), who are coming off their first victory of the season in Week 3.

Head coach Mike Tomlin’s No. 1 point of emphasis is stopping running back Jonathan Taylor. The All-Pro back has rushed for 261 yards on 5.1 yards per carry.

“We got a big challenge in Jonathan Taylor,” Tomlin said Tuesday. “I think that challenge is intensified because of [Anthony] Richardson‘s mobility. And their willingness to use schematics regarding Richardson’s mobility. They got a really diverse offense in terms of RPO football and run pass options. They don’t allow you to stack the box in an effort to minimize Taylor.

“You got to play the cat and mouse game with them in terms of some of those things.”