Steelers Fans Likely To See Their New Cornerback For The First Time On Monday Night

The Pittsburgh Steelers' biggest need seems to be a wide receiver to partner with George Pickens. They need a player who can fill that wide receiver two (WR2) role effectively and consistently, but the players on the current team just haven't been able to do that thus far. That need has gotten the attention of fans and the media. However, the Steelers have other needs they need to consider as well.

Thanks to injuries, there have been a lot of changes on the roster, including in the cornerback room. They have a powerful cornerback duo in Joey Porter Jr. and Donte Jackson, but the injury to Cory Trice Jr. has forced players like James Pierre to step up. Undrafted rookie free agent Beanie Bishop Jr. seems to perform better each week. He had two interceptions, his first ever in the pros, on Aaron Rodgers in the Week 7 game against the New York Jets. 

Now, with the trade deadline drawing near, the Steelers knew they couldn't risk losing a potential game-changer. They chose to sign C.J. Henderson to the 53-man roster ahead of the Week 8 Monday Night Football game against the New York Giants. Henderson has been on the Steelers' practice squad since they signed him near the end of September. 

A former first-round draft pick, ninth overall out of the University of Florida, Henderson spent only two seasons with the Jacksonville Jaguars. He spent another two with the Carolina Panthers before a quick stop with the Houston Texans during the 2024 preseason. He then made his way to the Steel City. 

According to Chris Adamski from TRIBLive, Henderson said not much has changed, except maybe his paycheck. Adamski spoke with Henderson before the Steelers' Thursday practice about the change in his status.  

"I feel pretty much the same," Henderson told Adamski. "They were working on getting me involved either way. I am just excited for the opportunity."

It appears the Steelers wanted to prevent another team from poaching a potential asset and decided to elevate him so that he would stay in black and gold. According to Adamski, Henderson said other teams were expressing interest in signing him to their active rosters. 

Henderson also told Adamski that he expects to play a role in both special teams and defense in the upcoming game against the Giants at Acrisure Stadium. During his time with the Jaguars and Panthers, Henderson worked primarily as an outside corner, but he has taken snaps all over the secondary. That means he has the versatility that Head Coach Mike Tomlin and General Manager Omar Khan seem to covet. 

"I'm looking forward to it," Henderson said to Adamski. "Whatever they need me to do, I am looking forward to it and will show them the best that I can do."

During his career, he has started 32 games and has collected three interceptions, two forced fumbles, one sack, and 172 tackles. The Steelers will get Cam Sutton back after the bye for their Week 10 game against the Washington Commanders as well.

Steelers' Beanie Bishop Is Growing Into His Role

Bishop was forced into the spotlight when Trice was injured during the Week 3 game against the Los Angeles Chargers. Fans were excited by what they had seen from the young Bishop in training camp. However, Bishop struggled with inconsistent play once on the field and presented with professional offenses. It was particularly evident against the Dallas Cowboys, as Bishop took a lot of heat after the game. 

Defensive Coordinator Teryl Austin predicted that Bishop would "bounce back," and he did, in a big way. This bounce back, or really the steady growth is thanks to the veteran defenders taking an interest in Bishop and mentoring him. Tomlin specifically credited safety Minkah Fitzpatrick, who has a way of "calming the waters" for younger players. 

It is unclear exactly how Bishop's role will change with Henderson's addition and when Sutton returns. However, Bishop is working to show his coaches that he is fighting for a spot on this team. 

How do you think Henderson fits into this defense? Click to comment below. 

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