Washington Redskins 2020 Draft Profiles: CJ Henderson, CB, Florida

CJ Henderson

Position: Cornerback

Height: 6’1”

Weight: 202 lbs.

College: Florida

Strengths:

Henderson has impressive speed, wide receiver-like ball skills and a long, wiry frame that make him one of the better cornerback prospects in the 2020 draft. His closing speed on receivers and quarterbacks on corner blitzes jump out on tape, as does his knack for corralling and returning tipped balls and overthrows. He’s usually in the right places and has excellent instincts, which allows him to use his long arms to break up passes. Henderson has been active, as he’s defended 11 passes this year, which is more than his 2017 and 2018 marks (four and five) combined.

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Weaknesses:

He has a wiry frame and could stand to add some mass as he moves to the NFL so he can contend with physical receivers. While he hasn’t recorded an interception in 2019 despite notching four and two in 2017 and 2018, respectively, that’s not too concerning given his activity. He has been caught looking back at the quarterback in college, which may lead to veteran quarterbacks fooling him with their eyes at the next level, but that’s common for young cornerbacks.

Why he may fit with Washington:

The Redskins have been a mediocre team against the pass, but there’s a clear need for the team to add talent at defensive back. Expensive and aging corner Josh Norman has disappointed in D.C. and has recently been benched while others in the secondary like Quinton Dunbar and Fabian Moreau have been banged up. Henderson could be a breath of fresh air for the ’Skins and a great addition to a young defense.

Bottom Line:

CJ Henderson’s ball skills, frame and production against SEC teams gives him a relatively high floor and considerable upside at the next level, and he could be worth a look for Washington, especially if he slips to the third round.

Projected Round: 2nd