The Detroit Lions have one of the best rosters in the league despite seeing a lot of change between the roster and coaching staff this offseason. They made some big swings in free agency, which included signing cornerback D.J. Reed to help replace the departing Carlton Davis.
The Lions' secondary has a ton of potential with Reed, Terrion Arnold, Kerby Joseph, Brian Branch, and Amik Robertson as the likely starters.
They also have some young players as depth options; however, more help is never a bad thing. That's why the Lions should also consider signing free agent CB C.J. Henderson, who was drafted ninth overall by the Jacksonville Jaguars in the 2020 NFL draft.
Lions Should Take a Flyer on CB C.J. Henderson Despite Draft Bust Label
Henderson's Jacksonville tenure didn't last long, as he was traded to the Carolina Panthers after playing in just 10 games for the Jaguars. Unfortunately, Henderson has since dealt with shoulder, groin, head, and knee-related injuries, forcing him to miss a ton of games — including the entire 2024 season.
In 49 outings with the Jags and Panthers, Henderson has supplied 172 total tackles, 16 pass breakups, and three picks.
One of the biggest reasons Henderson was a top 10 pick was due to his great athleticism. At the 2020 NFL Scouting Combine, he ran a 4.39 40-yard dash, showcasing his blistering speed. That, in combination with his 93 total tackles, 22 pass deflections, and six interceptions in his college career, Henderson looked like an intriguing prospect.
Unfortunately, it hasn't translated to the NFL. Henderson has logged a sub-60 overall and coverage grade in each season so far, per Pro Football Focus. While he hasn't been the best pro, coaching goes a long way, and it isn't as if he's been surrounded by the best staff
Bringing in Henderson to compete for a roster spot and be a depth option in the Lions' secondary isn't a bad deal. At the end of the day, most coaches want players with traits like those of Henderson, and they can teach them techniques that maximize those skills.
Even though the Lions will have some new voices on the defensive side, the culture is still the same. Head coach Dan Campbell is still here, and you have to trust his ability to scout coaches with how he's turned things around.
Signing Henderson to a low-cost one-year deal could be something that benefits both sides and would give the 26-year-old a chance to play on a championship contender.