The Pittsburgh Steelers are continuing their momentum with Russell Wilson leading the team, and they’ve just strengthened their secondary depth.
The Russell Wilson era in Pittsburgh kicked off with a decisive victory over the New York Jets on Sunday night in Week 7. Despite a 4-2 start without Wilson, head coach Mike Tomlin opted to start the seasoned quarterback over Justin Fields. Following the win, the Steelers made a low-profile but strategic roster move on Monday.
According to NFL insider Ian Rapoport on X, Pittsburgh elevated cornerback CJ Henderson from the practice squad to the active roster. Henderson was reportedly attracting interest from other teams needing secondary help, prompting the Steelers to secure him and prevent a potential signing by a rival team.
Originally drafted ninth overall in 2020 by the Jacksonville Jaguars out of Florida, Henderson spent one season in Jacksonville before being traded to the Carolina Panthers, where he played for three years. He signed with the Houston Texans before the 2024 season but was released in August, leading the Steelers to add him to their practice squad.
Henderson has yet to take the field this season. In 49 games from 2020 to 2023, he had 172 total tackles, three interceptions, two forced fumbles, one sack, and 16 passes defensed. He’s anticipated to provide depth for the Steelers, but cornerback Donte Jackson suffered a shoulder injury against the Jets on Sunday. Henderson may see action if he is unable to participate or is limited in Week 8.
The Steelers climbed to 5-2 after their Week 7 triumph. Tomlin faced criticism for changing quarterbacks in the middle of a great season. And, at times, it appeared that Pittsburgh was not ready to move on from Fields. Tomlin, on the other hand, acted decisively, declaring Wilson the starter, and it paid off instantly.
The Steelers dominated the Jets 37-15 on Sunday night, with Wilson looking like his old Pro Bowl form after shaking off some rust in the first quarter. Pittsburgh currently leads the AFC North. The Steelers will play another primetime game in Week 8 at home against the New York Giants on Monday Night Football.
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