Ex-Gators first-round pick released by Atlanta Falcons
CJ Henderson, a former Florida Gators cornerback and the 9th overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft, was released by the Atlanta Falcons on Tuesday.
The Miami native spent only 12 days on the Falcons’ roster; however, according to NFL insider Jordan Schultz, the Falcons plan to place Henderson on their practice squad if he clears waivers.
Henderson began his NFL career with the Jacksonville Jaguars and signed a four-year rookie contract worth more than $20 million. In his rookie season, he started eight games and recorded 36 tackles, six pass breakups, one interception and one forced fumble before a groin injury ended his season.
In 2021, Henderson played just 10 games with Jacksonville before being traded to the Carolina Panthers. He spent the next two seasons there. In 2022, he appeared in all 17 games and recorded 58 tackles, two interceptions, six pass breakups and one forced fumble. In 2023, he played 12 games and added 39 tackles with two pass defenses.
After his time with the Panthers, Henderson signed with the Houston Texans in 2024 but did not make the team and was released before the season. He later joined the Pittsburgh Steelers’ practice squad and saw brief action with their active roster.
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Before his NFL career, Henderson was a star at the University of Florida. He played three seasons with the Gators, starting 27 games and finishing with, 93 tackles, 20 pass breakups and six interceptions. His strong coverage skills and athleticism made him one of the top cornerbacks in college football and a first-round draft pick.
Now, after a short stay in Atlanta, Henderson’s career will continue on the Falcons’ practice squad where he will look for another chance to prove himself on the field.
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